When it comes to arthritis, it is basically the inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that instigates inflammation and pain in the lining of the joints and later on causes the deterioration and deformity of the affected joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis is considered as a systemic disease that not only affects the joints but also other parts of the body. The condition usually comes and goes in flare-ups and timely treatment is highly beneficial in preventing the destruction of the joints but there is no known cure even today. There are various types of rheumatoid diseases that can cause similar effects on the body and caused by the autoimmune dysfunction. You can learn more about this form of arthritis if you will enroll in a first aid course today.
What is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis?
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis has all the distinctive characteristics but initially noticed in children below 16 years old. This is considered as the most prevalent form of arthritis among children and can be mild or damaging.
The symptoms include joint redness, stiffness, pain and muscle weakness that can persist throughout life. Take note that there are three major forms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
- Oligoarthritis is one form of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis that affects up to four joints the in body.
- Systemic or Still’s disease can cause symptoms all over the body which includes rashes, fever, organ inflammation and swollen lymph nodes.
Always remember that the exact causes of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis are not yet fully understood but it is considered as an autoimmune disorder. If a child is suspected with this condition, a doctor should be consulted.
What is ankylosing spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis is a disease that is quite similar to rheumatoid arthritis and causes joint pain, inflammation and deterioration. Just like with the typical rheumatoid arthritis, the cause is unknown but linked to autoimmune dysfunction.
One of the distinctive features of ankylosing spondylitis that makes it different from the traditional rheumatoid arthritis is its starting point which is the spine and sacroiliac joints. Ankylosing spondylitis can cause new growth of bone in the joints of the spine and sacroiliac joints and eventually causing them to fuse, thus reducing the range of motion. There is no cure for this condition but the treatment aims to manage the symptoms as well as prevent damage to the joints.
What is lupus?
Lupus or systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic inflammatory condition that triggers joint inflammation and pain but can also cause symptoms affecting other organs in the body.
Some of the symptoms of lupus include heart and lung dysfunction, skin lesions or rashes, kidney issues and neurological issues. In most cases of lupus, they do not lead to joint deformity or destruction but long-term cases can cause bone deformities without erosion.