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Main > Specialty Areas > Rheumatology >
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis ('arth' meaning joint, and 'itis' meaning inflammation) is basically an inflammation of a joint. Arthritis causes swelling, pain and stiffness of muscles. Arthritis can develop from degenerative changes, infection, trauma, metabolic disturbances, etc.
Arthritis is a general name encompassing around 100 different conditions (see the next page for a list of some types of arthritis). Arthritis can be anything from relatively mild forms of tendinitis (as in 'tennis elbow') and bursitis to crippling systemic forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
A good percentage of aged people have arthritis, but Arthritis is not a disease of the old. Some forms of arthritis can be seen in children and kids, thousands of middle-age people are also affected by arthritis. The common symptoms for all these conditions are joint and musculoskeletal pain, this kind of pain that is a result of an inflammation of the joint lining.
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| Random Useful Tip: |
Epinephrine shot If you are known to have a severe anaphylactic reaction, carry an epinephrine (adrenaline) shot with you at all times. Pay attention to expiration date and replace it regularly: upon expiration, it loses its effectiveness. |
| Random Drug Info: |
Acyclovir Acyclovir is a medication that is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, lips and genitals, chicken pox and shingles. It comes in the form of ointments, tablets, capsules or liquids. It relieves pain and itchiness and promotes healing; however, it does not cure the condition. Possible (but not common) side effects include headaches, upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea. Severe side effects, such as severe rash or itching, blood in the urine, stomach pain or fever are even less common, but require prompt medical attention. |
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