Arthritis is derived from a Greek word where 'arthro' means joint and 'itis' means inflammation. It is a common problem foraged people. It is a joint related disease that affects normal movement.

It has become quite popular in the present day. The causes of arthritis are not yet discovered but risk factors and symptoms are quite well known. But immense improvements have occurred in the field of diagnosing arthritis.

Arthritis has two important characteristics like joint pain and inflammation. Inflammation is a state where the immune system fights against infection or removes the irritation. Inflammation has typical characteristics like heat, pain, redness and swelling in the affected area.

As far as the pain of joints is concerned it happens because substances released by the white blood cells along with the tissue swell up. Along with joint pain and inflammation, some other symptoms like fever, fatigue, weight loss and loss of appetite are also observed. At times, the lungs, heart, nerves, eyes and skin can also be damaged. A regular morning symptom that is observed in arthritic patients is joint stiffness.

People suffering from arthritis have to face many difficulties and challenges. Firstly, the pain and inflammation that is experienced because of arthritis restricts your normal life. Secondly, your work life is hampered. Finally, as the muscles weaken, you tend to become less active.

Arthritis can affect any age group. But is has been found that women are at a greater risk. Though it is considered to be an old age disease but researches have revealed that no one can escape the evil clutches of this disease.

Arthritis can be of many kinds. It can be broadly categorized into two main types: inflammatory and degenerative. The distinction between the two is not always clearly defined. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis that causes the soft tissue to to deteriorate leading to pain. When a single joint is affected it is called monoarthritis. When few joints are affected the condition is called Oligoarthritis. If several joints are affected the condition is called polyarthritis.

Another common form of arthritis is called osteoarthritis. It is an example of degenerative arthritis. Septic arthritis is a kind of arthritis that is caused due to joint infection. Gout is also a type of arthritis that is caused due to uric acid deposition in the joint and it causes inflammation. Therefore, it can be clearly observed that arthritis is purely a joint related disease. So proper diagnosing at an early stage is very important.

The diagnosis of arthritis is done by some X-rays and blood tests. After observing the condition of your health, the doctors might recommend magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Diagnosing arthritis is done after taking the medical history of the patient.

Physical examination includes focusing on the muscles and joints.

After the diagnosis of arthritis has been done the next thing that should be considered is the treatment of arthritis. Treatment includes various occupational and physical therapy, medications and other dietary supplements.

In severe cases, joint replacement surgeries (Arthroplasty) might also be needed. Physical exercises and construing to diets rich in marine oils have also proved to be effective for treating arthritis.

The physical exercises might include walking, yoga, bi-cycling and water exercises. These exercises not only increase the energy levels but also enhance the muscle strength. The drugs that are often used to treat arthritis are hydroxychloroquine, gold, penicillamine, azathioprine, sulfasalazine and methotrexate.

Therefore, folks if you have arthritis please do not feel depressed. Talk to your doctor about your problems as soon as possible. Then follow the doctor's instructions.

Taking rest and following a healthy diet can cure your arthritis to some extent. So just be patient and give it some time before you lose all hope.