Smoking is a major risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is not a single disease but a clinical condition marked by inflammation of the joints such as the knee, hip, wrist, shoulder, ankle, and elbow.
It manifests through pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted movement, significantly affecting day-to-day activities.
Arthritis can also have systemic effects beyond joints, leading to issues like eye inflammation and spinal fusion.
Types of Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): It is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks its own joints, causing chronic inflammation and joint damage.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked to psoriasis, this form of arthritis causes joint pain along with skin issues.
Osteoarthritis: It is degenerative form where cartilage wears down over time. It is often seen with aging but not limited to elderly people.
Gout: It is caused by uric acid crystal deposition in joints, leading to sudden, severe attacks of pain and swelling.