Arthritis is a prevalent disorder that affects the joints. Also, it can lead to discomfort and irritation, making movement and staying active difficult. Arthritis comes in a variety of forms. Each kind produces distinct symptoms and may necessitate different treatments. While Evergreen arthritis most commonly affects older people, it may afflict men, women, and children of any age. Here are the top 5 common arthritis symptoms you shouldn’t ignore:
- Increase in fatigue
Increased fatigue may indicate persistent inflammatory disease activity, fibromyalgia, depression, or anemia. These can be caused by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and drugs used to treat various types of arthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and corticosteroids, can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can lead to anemia. Methotrexate, a disease-modifying antirheumatic medication (DMARD), can interfere with blood cell production, resulting in anemia. Although a day of increased fatigue may be your body telling you to slow down and relax more, you should notify your rheumatologist if it is frequent, severe, or lasts more than a week.
- Shortness of breath
This symptom, especially if it is accompanied by a dry cough or little or no effort, might indicate a potentially serious condition, such as a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung) or interstitial lung disease (scarring of the lung tissue), which affects up to one in every ten persons with RA. Methotrexate pneumonitis (also known as methotrexate lung) is another possible reason if you are using methotrexate. This is an inflammation of lung tissue that affects up to 10% of persons who take it. Furthermore, shortness of breath may be accompanied by a dry cough and fever with methotrexate lung.
- Painful urination
This symptom, especially when accompanied by a fever, indicates infection. Infection is a significant adverse effect of both conventional and biological medications. Because these medicines inhibit the immune system, infections can occasionally progress fast and become dangerous. If you are on immunosuppressive drugs and experience signs of a urinary tract or bladder infection, you should talk to your rheumatologist immediately.
- Achilles pain
Increased physical activity, an accident, or wearing shoes without sufficient heel support can all cause pain and swelling above your heel. Conversely, if the pain is accompanied by additional indicators, such as low back discomfort or swollen joints, it might indicate ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis. Both disorders are characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, a strong cord of connective tissue that connects your calf muscle to the heel bone. It is critical to have the correct diagnosis and treatment, so notify your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms and develop new discomfort in the Achilles tendon region.
Arthritis symptoms might appear so gradually that you may be unaware of the ailment. You may feel more achy or weary than normal. It is essential to consult a doctor if you’re experiencing joint discomfort and swelling. Additionally, arthritis is a degenerative illness that worsens with time. Getting treatment as soon as possible helps you avoid irreversible joint injury. Call Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center to schedule your meeting today to learn more about various arthritis treatments best for you.
