There are many types of arthritis, each with its own set of symptoms and characteristics. Here is a list of some of the most common types of arthritis:
Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type of arthritis and is often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis. It is caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints, which can be due to age, injury, or overuse.
Rheumatoid arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the immune system attacks healthy tissue in the body. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage to the joint tissue. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Gout: This type of arthritis is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, which can lead to inflammation and pain. Gout is often associated with a diet high in purines, which are found in certain foods such as meat and seafood.
Psoriatic arthritis: This type of arthritis is related to the skin condition psoriasis, which causes red, scaly patches on the skin. The cause of psoriatic arthritis is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Ankylosing spondylitis: This type of arthritis affects the spine and the joints between the spine and pelvis. It is thought to be related to an autoimmune disorder and has a genetic component. It can cause stiffness and pain in the lower back and hips.
Septic arthritis: This type of arthritis is caused by an infection in the joint, usually due to bacteria. It can occur as a result of an injury or surgery, or it may be the result of an infection elsewhere in the body that spreads to the joints.
Juvenile arthritis: This type of arthritis affects children and teenagers. It can cause inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints, and it can also affect the eyes and skin.
Lupus: This is a systemic autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues, including the joints. The cause of lupus is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Fibromyalgia: This is a condition that causes widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles and soft tissues. The cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to an imbalance in the levels of certain chemicals in the brain and an abnormal sensitivity to pain.
Polymyalgia rheumatica: This is a type of autoimmune disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the neck, shoulder, and hip muscles. It is often associated with giant cell arteritis, a condition that causes inflammation of the blood vessels.
Scleroderma: This is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes the skin to become thick and hard, and it can also affect the blood vessels, internal organs, and joints.