| Extra-articular features of joint disease[6] |
|---|
| Cutaneous nodules |
| Cutaneous vasculitis lesions |
| Lymphadenopathy |
| Oedema |
| Ocular inflammation |
| Urethritis |
| Tenosynovitis (tendon sheath effusions) |
| Bursitis (swollen bursa) |
| Diarrhea |
| Orogenital ulceration |
Pain, which can vary in severity, is a common symptom in virtually all types of arthritis. Other symptoms include swelling, joint stiffness and aching around the joint(s). Arthritic disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can affect other organs in the body, leading to a variety of symptoms.[7] Symptoms may include:
- Inability to use the hand or walk
- Stiffness, which may be worse in the morning, or after use
- Malaise and fatigue
- Weight loss
- Poor sleep
- Muscle aches and pains
- Tenderness
- Difficulty moving the joint
It is common in advanced arthritis for significant secondary changes to occur. For example, arthritic symptoms might make it difficult for a person to move around and/or exercise, which can lead to secondary effects, such as:
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of flexibility
- Decreased aerobic fitness
These changes, in addition to the primary symptoms, can have a huge impact on quality of life.
Disability
Arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the USA. More than 20 million individuals with arthritis have severe limitations in function on a daily basis.[8] Absenteeism and frequent visits to the physician are common in individuals who have arthritis. Arthritis can make it very difficult for individuals to be physically active and some become home bound.
It is estimated that the total cost of arthritis cases is close to $100 billion of which almost 50% is from lost earnings. Each year, arthritis results in nearly 1 million hospitalizations and close to 45 million outpatient visits to health care centers.[9]
Decreased mobility, in combination with the above symptoms, can make it difficult for an individual to remain physically active, contributing to an increased risk of obesity, highcholesterol or vulnerability to heart disease.[10] People with arthritis are also at increased risk of depression, which may be a response to numerous factors, including fear of worsening symptoms.[11]
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