What is World Arthritis Day?

In 1990, around 23.46 million people in India had osteoarthritis (OA), a number that surged to 62.35 million by 2019. Millions of individuals across the country continue to suffer from arthritis every year, and the numbers keep rising.1 Although the causes of arthritis vary, and some remain unknown, there is unfortunately no permanent cure. However, medical treatments can help manage or even suppress symptoms in some cases. 

That’s why you must  consult your doctor if you experience any signs of joint problems. An early arthritis diagnosis can be crucial in managing the condition effectively and improving quality of life.

This World Arthritis Day ,12th October, take a step towards a healthier you. Arthritis can be unexplained in some cases, and some may develop due to family history. However, arthritis research shows that avoiding the risk of arthritis is possible through lifestyle changes. This article will discuss arthritis, why it occurs in people, and how to get over it. This World Arthritis Day, let's learn more about arthritis so you can avoid it and fight against it. So, read on to learn more.

When is World Arthritis Day Witnessed?

World Arthritis Day is observed annually on 12th October. In 2023, the slogan was “Living with an RMD at all stages of life.” The first Arthritis Day was observed on 12 October 1996. The importance of the date was established by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI).

Various communities and individuals come forward on this day to increase arthritis awareness. Arthritis is one of the most common diseases affecting millions worldwide. The disease has no permanent solution but just suppressants. So, it is crucial to be aware of arthritis and take the required measures to avoid it. On the day of arthritis awareness, people try to raise awareness regarding simple lifestyle changes that can help lower the risk of arthritis. This year, the world will also witness Rheumatoid Awareness Day on 12th October with the aim of decreasing future cases of arthritis by taking the correct measures today!

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to joint pain and swelling. Usually, it occurs in multiple joints in a person. With age, arthritis is common. However, it may affect people at a younger age as well. The swelling and pain can limit joint movements and cause problems moving or walking. There are different types of arthritis. Among these, two are the most common ones:

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disease in which the lining of joints starts to weaken. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks its own joint.

Osteoarthritis

Breaking of bone cartilage causes osteoarthritis. Cartilage covers the bone ends and is hard and slippery in texture.  It usually occurs with age due to normal joint wear and tear over years. 

Other than these, there are different types of arthritis. These include idiopathic arthritis, gout, etc.  For arthritis prevention, you must consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis

Arthritis affects joints. So, people may experience various signs and symptoms that may indicate arthritis. Some of the common arthritis symptoms are:

• Limited movement of joints
• Swelling of joints
• Pain in joints
• Redness or discoloration around joints
• Arthritis usually affects multiple joints
• Stiffness in and around joints
• Feeling the heat on the affected joints
• Sensitivity or pain in joints when touched or pressed

Arthritis medications can help reduce these symptoms. However, there is no cure for arthritis.

Causes of Arthritis

There can be various known and unknown causes of Arthritis. Depending on the type of arthritis in a patient, causes can be concluded. Some of the causes include:

1. General wear and tear of joints due to age
2. An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks its joints, as in rheumatoid arthritis
3. Excessive uric acid in joints can lead to gout
4. Viral infections like Covid-19 can cause viral arthritis and affect joints
5. Idiopathic arthritis are the ones where the cause behind it remains unknown to the doctors

There are certain risk factors for arthritis. Here is the list of risk factors that may trigger arthritis in certain people:

1. People who are obese or lack physical activities
2. High uric acid in the joints
3. People with autoimmune diseases
4. Family history of arthritis 
5. Use of tobacco in smoking or other form

Precautions Against Arthritis

Lowering the risks of arthritis is possible. Here are some of the tips that can help you avoid arthritis:

• Healthy Body Weight: Obesity causes various health problems, including arthritis. Excessive pressure from heavy weight can cause rapid joint wear and tear, which may lead to arthritis. The best idea is to maintain a healthy body weight.
• Regular Physical Activity: Get out of your comfort zone and perform exercises and physical activities regularly. The comfort of a sedentary lifestyle is a hoax to your mind.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking can cause more damage to your body than humans can ever know. Now is the right time to quit smoking. It can improve your overall health and reduce the risks of joint damage. 
• Eat Healthy: Eating a balanced diet is a must. Poor eating lifestyle and lack of sufficient nutrients can be a reason behind joint problems.
• Avoid Injuries: If you play sports, you must stretch before starting. This helps avoid unnecessary cartilage and joint damage, which can lead to accidents that may cause injuries to joints and increase the risk of arthritis.

Health Insurance and Arthritis

Arthritis treatment can be a long-term commitment. Amid rising medical expenses, it can be overwhelming for many to afford them. While there is no permanent cure for arthritis, getting the proper treatment can help reduce the symptoms and ease joint movements.

A health insurance policy is one solution to beat the hefty expense of medical treatment. Most health insurance plans also cover arthritis. People who have arthritis at the time of purchasing the health plan can get it listed under pre-existing diseases. A health insurance plan covering arthritis expenses can help you meet treatment costs. You no longer have to compromise on quality treatment for better health!

Since life and health are mostly unpredictable, it is best to be prepared against the odds. This World arthritis awareness month, invest in the right health insurance plans. At Care Health Insurance, you can get the health insurance plan for arthritis at the most affordable prices. Contact us today to learn more!

Wrapping Up!

Arthritis is one of the most common joint diseases worldwide. A sedentary lifestyle and delayed medical attention can be some of the reasons behind it. As discussed above, arthritis management and lowering its risk is possible through simple lifestyle changes. A healthy life keeps away most diseases, and arthritis is one such disease. World Arthritis Day is a way of increasing awareness among people regarding the evils of arthritis and how one can avoid the risk.

So, are you ready to join the cause and make a change? This World Arthritis Day, take a step towards good health. Investing in proper health insurance is also crucial to ensure good health. Choose your most suitable options at Care Health Insurance!

>> Also Read: Chronic Pain Management and Health Insurance Coverage

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References:

https://www.oarsijournal.com/article/S1063-4584(22)00742-7/fulltext

https://www.eular.org/world-arthritis-day-2023

https://www.livemint.com/science/health/world-arthritis-day-2023-what-is-arthritis-its-different-types-theme-history-and-significance-11697054651991.html

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12061-arthritis