Wednesday, February 7, 2007

Living with Arthritis

I am living with osteoarthritis in my knees my left knee is the worst.Living with arthritis is like having no life at all because I cannot get around like I use too nor do the job that I love doing.
Which is a Security Officer for 16 years.Arthritis robs you of your life. But their is medical treatments you can have to releave you from your pain. As for me I need to have my left knee replace.Here is a couple of links that you can
go to for more information on Osteoarthritis Arthritis. http://www.arthritis.org/conditions/diseasecenter/OA/

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/osteoarthritis/DS00019



Did you know that arthritis and chronic joint symptoms are the leading cause of disability among Americans age 15 and over? Seventy million Americans (one in every three adults) are estimated to have some type of joint pain. Arthritis interferes with the everyday activities of over seven million Americans, making it difficult for them to walk, dress, or bathe themselves. Although there are several forms of arthritis, three types are the most common.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis for adults over age 40. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and limited movement. Osteoarthritis can affect a single joint and most often targets the weight-bearing joints such as knees, hips, and lower back. As the articular cartilage that cushions the joint breaks down, uneven surfaces develop, causing pain and swelling. Medication and exercise can help relieve discomfort. Once the deterioration causes bone to rub against bone, surgery may be an option. Your medical specialist will provide you with the best options for your condition.

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most disabling types of arthritis, afflicting more than two million Americans. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, a condition in which the body attacks itself. There are many similarities to osteoarthritis; however, rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age. More than 60 percent of people with rheumatoid arthritis are women. It most often affects the wrists, ankles, knees, and toes. Rheumatoid arthritis causes the joints to become inflamed, stiff, and painful to move. If not treated, joints may become deformed and loss of movement may occur.

Gout arthritis most often occurs in older men. Uric acid is a product of cell breakdown in the body. At extra high levels, uric acid can crystallize in and around small joints, especially the joint of the big toe. Gout is treated with two kinds of drugs: one to reduce the inflammation caused by uric acid crystals and the other to reduce the uric acid level itself. Contact your medical specialist for the most current options available to treat gout.





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