Arthritis Is Not a Single Disease

Did you know arthritis is not a single disease? Arthritis comprises over 100 different diseases and conditions. The most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia. Over 1 in 5 Americans report doctor-diagnosed arthritis, according to the (CDC) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nearly a million Americans will be diagnosed with arthritis this year alone. Over the next two decades as the population ages, the number of people with arthritic conditions will continue to skyrocket.

Did you know an accurate diagnosis is required for proper treatment of arthritis? An effective treatment plan for arthritis can help manage the disease. With over 100 forms of arthritis, early symptoms can overlap and diagnosis of arthritis can prove difficult. Treatment plans for arthritis usually combine several forms of treatment and vary depending on the type of arthritis and the patient. According to the Arthritis Foundation, if you're having signs and symptoms of arthritis for more than two weeks, you should consult a doctor or rheumatologist -- a medical doctor who specializes in arthritis and related diseases. If left undiagnosed and untreated, many types of arthritis can cause irreversible damage to the joints, bones, and organs.

• Arthritis Screening Quiz
• Early Arthritis Symptoms
• Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis
• Don't Ignore These 10 Arthritis Signs

Did you know arthritis is not just an older person’s disease? The CDC reports, nearly two-thirds of people with arthritis are younger than age 65. Unless the difficulties and limitations imposed by arthritis affect you or a family member directly, your exposure to the disease may be minimal. Arthritis is often misunderstood, largely due to misconceptions, misinformation, and myths which persist.

More Related Resources:

• Arthritis Symptoms / Diagnosis
• 7 Misconceptions About Arthritis
• What Are the Types of Arthritis?
• Is It Arthritis or Normal Aches and Pains?
• 10 Things You Should Know About Arthritis

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