Early Detection of Arthritis Reduces Symptoms
Early Diagnosis Can Prevent and Lessen Arthritis Pain
Sep 21, 2008
The numbers are staggering. According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 46 million Americans — about 300,000 of them children — have some form of arthritis. This number could rise to as high as 67 million by 2030. With more than 100 forms of the disease, some of them crippling or even life-threatening, this is a public health crisis that takes a huge physical, financial and emotional toll on our nation.
In 1972, Congress designated May as National Arthritis Month in order to raise awareness and funds for arthritis and related diseases such as gout, lupus and fibromyalgia — the nation’s leading cause of disability. The Arthritis Foundation estimates that these diseases cost our nation’s economy approximately $128 billion annually due to lost wages, health care costs, disability payments and the like.
Arthritis affects both men and women, and can strike people of all ages, including infants and toddlers. Research supported by the Arthritis Foundation and the National Institutes of Health shows that having arthritis limits the patient's daily activities and performance on the job. And a 2004 article in the journal Medical Care stated, "Arthritis is strongly associated with major depression, probably through its role in creating functional limitation."
While there is no cure for arthritis, many forms can be prevented or treated to reduce their painful effects — especially when diagnosed early. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, sometimes called “wear and tear” arthritis or degenerative joint disease. This form affects almost all of us as we age, but it can be prevented or at least minimized in most cases.
The second most common form of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the skin and internal organs as well as the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis often leads to severe joint damage and disability, but research advances in recent years have led to new treatments that can slow or even stop its progression.
Experts urge people with joint symptoms such as pain and stiffness to see a doctor without delay. Even if family history or lifestyle choices put you at risk for arthritis, there are things you can do now — such as proper exercise or taking an appropriate medication — to prevent and manage the disease and reduce its long-term effects.
In addition, research shows that arthritis patients experience less pain and fewer swollen joints when they receive education and support in the form of written information, support groups, self-help courses and the like. When you learn your diagnosis early, you can take advantage of this kind of support right away.
For more information, talk to your own doctor or visit one of the following websites:
