Etiology of Arthritis
Disease description:
I have been experiencing frequent joint pain lately, especially in my knees and wrists. Sometimes they also become swollen and stiff. After visiting the hospital, I was diagnosed with arthritis. I would like to know what exactly causes arthritis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Arthritis is a common disease that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and impaired mobility. Its causes are diverse and mainly include the following categories:
1. Degenerative changes: With aging, joint cartilage gradually wears away, leading to osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis in older adults.
2. Autoimmune reactions: Such as rheumatoid arthritis, which is caused by abnormal immune activity leading to inflammation of the joint lining (synovium) and subsequent joint damage.
3. Infections: Pathogens such as bacteria and viruses can invade the joints, causing infectious diseases like septic arthritis.
4. Trauma: Joint injuries, such as fractures and dislocations, can potentially lead to traumatic arthritis.
5. Genetic factors: Such as ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that tends to run in families.
6. Obesity: Excess body weight increases the burden on the knee and hip joints, thereby increasing the risk of arthritis.
7. Occupational factors: Long-term engagement in jobs requiring repetitive joint use, such as prolonged standing or lifting heavy objects, may also increase the risk of arthritis.
