Arthritis is a general term used to describe a group of conditions that cause inflammation and damage to the joints in the body. There are many different types of arthritis, but the two most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of bones wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joint. It is more common in older adults and can be caused by factors such as aging, obesity, joint injury or overuse, and genetics.
Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and damage to the joint tissue. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Other types of arthritis, such as psoriatic arthritis, gout, and lupus, have different underlying causes and risk factors. In general, factors that can increase the risk of developing arthritis include age, obesity, joint injuries, and a family history of the condition.
