Arthritis is one of the most common orthopedic diseases in the world. But unlike most bone diseases, arthritis does not affect only elderly people but it could also target the young. Because it most commonly affects only the joints, people underestimate its detrimental effects. According to one article, arthritis follows heart disease as the second leading cost of work disability. The same article also stated that arthritis and related conditions annually cost Americans billions in medical expenses.

Arthritis literally means inflammation of one or more joints. It is a joint disease that can include pain, which is called arthralgia. Arthritis is a condition that has over a hundred different types, each having different sets of symptoms and each targeting different body parts. But there are common symptoms for arthritis that could help in diagnosing the exact variation of the disease.

Among the most common symptoms for arthritis are the stiffness and swelling of joints, the surrounding muscles and other parts that are within the proximity of the affected joint, like the cartilage, joint linings and connective tissues.

As we all know, joints connect bones and allow them to function properly. Bones connected through a joint have cartilages that reduce friction. When these cartilages are worn out, the bones will rub against each other. When this happens, moving will cause great discomfort to the person, resulting in limited mobility and in eventual deformity.

Common symptoms for arthritis also include tenderness and redness of the affected area. The area could also feel warm to the touch.

The common symptoms for arthritis could be manifested in different parts of the body where joints are present, like the neck, shoulders, hips and knees. Fingers could also be affected by arthritis. Other common symptoms for arthritis are fever, rashes, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss. Juvenile arthritis manifests the same symptoms but it includes anemia and rashes on the arm and legs.

Arthritis could also affect the performance of internal organs like the heart, kidney and lungs. It can also cause some glands, specifically salivary and tear glands, to swell as a result of this disease.

Medical attention should be sought if the symptoms persist for a week. Arthritis is diagnosed through the evaluation of symptoms and by performing methods like lab tests, x-ray and other imaging tests. Greater discomfort and further damage could be curbed by quick intervention, so it is important not to wait long before seeking medical advice. Symptoms could surface suddenly or they could gradually be revealed over a period of time.

Arthritis can prevent a person from performing even the simplest tasks. The pain and discomfort that arthritis causes makes daily activities seem impossible to do. With this disease, actions like sitting, eating, walking and even bathing can be very hard to do. This can result in depression and inactivity.

A person ridden with arthritis could also stand to lose his job and his life could be drastically changed. Quick medical intervention is important to relieve discomfort and avoid extensive damage and deformity.