What Are the Common Types of Arthritis?

Arthritis is a relatively common disease that involves inflammation in the joints of the human body. When affected by this disease, patients may experience pain, swelling, stiffness, and functional degradation in their joints. Common types of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and reactive arthritis.

1. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthrosis, is closely related to human aging. Osteoproliferation is a common occurrence in the elderly, making them susceptible to osteoarthritis. Clinical data shows that the prevalence of osteoarthritis in people under 45 is only 2%, while it reaches 68% in those over 65. Many elderly people suffer from osteoarthritis to varying degrees.

2. Rheumatoid arthritis typically manifests as pain in small joints, such as the fingers and wrists, with symmetrical involvement. Eighty percent of patients with rheumatoid arthritis are between 35 and 50 years old, but it can also occur in the elderly and young children. Due to its complex relationship with genetics, infection, environment, and immunity, rheumatoid arthritis cannot be completely cured, and treatment mainly focuses on controlling the disease and maintaining joint function through medication.

3. Ankylosing spondylitis primarily manifests as lesions in the axial joints, such as the spine and sacroiliac joints. The etiology is unclear, but it is generally believed to be caused by the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. This disease is more common in males and usually occurs before 40 years of age. In severe cases, it can lead to spinal and joint deformities that affect daily life.

4. Reactive arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease triggered by extracapsular infection factors such as the intestinal and urinary systems. Reducing the infection rate and improving immunity can help prevent and treat this condition.