17/07/2019
*WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?*
Actually, “ *arthritis* ” is not a single disease; it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease or
*_Inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness that can worsen with age._*
_Inflammation is a process in which the body's white blood cells and immune proteins help protect us from infection and foreign substances such as bacteria and viruses._
_In some diseases, however, the body's defense system (immune system) triggers an inflammatory response when there are no foreign substances to fight off._
_In these diseases, called autoimmune diseases, the body's normally protective immune system causes damage to its own tissues._
*_The body responds as if normal tissues are infected or somehow abnormal._*
*_What Causes the Symptoms of Inflammation?_*
When inflammation occurs, chemicals from the body are released into the blood or affected tissues.
This release of chemicals increases the blood flow to the area of injury or infection and may result in redness and warmth.
_Some of the chemicals cause a leak of fluid into the tissues, resulting in swelling due to oxidative stress. This process may stimulate nerves and cause pain._
Osteoarthritis is another form of arthritis basically caused by degeneration of joint tissues after repetitive use - wear and tear.
This is due to deficiency of glutathione needed for the production of stem cells responsible for repairs and regeneration of damaged tissues.
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions.
People of all ages, sexes and races can and do have arthritis, and it is the leading cause of disability in the world.
It is most common among women and occurs more frequently as people get older.
_*Common arthritis joint symptoms include:*_
Swelling, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion, fever,
chills, fatigue/loss of energy, headaches,
loss of appetite
muscle stiffness.
Symptoms may come and go. The