Arthritis is majorly characterized by the inflammation of bone joints (a point where two bones are
attached to each other). Hence, the main symptom witnessed in arthritis is joint pains. The other symptoms characteristic of arthritis include swelling and redness of joints, pain interfering normal functioning, stiffness, etc. There are some indirect symptoms which do not affect the joints directly. Some vital organs of the body might be affected due to arthritis. Symptoms like uncontrolled weight gain or loss, abnormal functioning of liver, kidneys, heart, etc, fatigue, swelling of glands, etc. might be witnessed.

Arthritis has different effects on different individuals with varying features, treatment requirements, etc, hence known as a rheumatic disease. There are, however, some common features which help diagnose and categorize the condition under arthritis. These are inflammation of joints, bone ligaments, tendons, cartilage, etc. Apart from these one or more organs of the body is/are also affected.

There have been many types of arthritis which have been discovered depending upon the cause or severity of the condition, and the number of forms of arthritis is till increasing with more discoveries. The condition might be caused due to hereditary factors, as a result of injuries, abnormal metabolic functioning, an overactive immune system, infections, etc.

Quite a few indirect but related consequences are witnessed as a result of arthritis. Such conditions include confined physical abilities, inefficiency in performing daily life activities, etc.

Psychological concerns like depression, resulting from the lack of optimum physical abilities is another such indirect effect caused by arthritis or any chronic disease involving disability for that matter.


Risk factors that contribute to arthritis:


BMI: Increase in the Body Mass Index (BMI) increases the probable risk factor of arthritis. It is more easily found in individuals with more body weight and is generally found more in cases with obesity.

Gender and Age: Arthritis is more common in men than men and increases with increase in age:

Genetics: Certain genes are found to be associated with higher risk of acquiring arthritis.

Physical and internal injuries as well as consistently inappropriate physical activity might also lead to arthritis. However, appropriate and professionally monitored physical activity and exercise is proven to be the most beneficial way of managing a condition like arthritis to maintain a physically active lifestyle.