Early arthritis is a term that may seem puzzling, but in fact refers to the initial stages of inflammatory joint conditions that can progress over time and develop into more advanced forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthrosis. In this early phase, arthritis often manifests with less intense symptoms, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
The key to recognising early arthritis is to understand that although the symptoms may be subtle, they should not be ignored. Typical signs include slight pain, discomfort in the joints, slight stiffness in the morning and sometimes slight swelling. These symptoms are often mistaken for normal signs of ageing or fatigue, which can delay proper treatment.
The difference between early arthritis and other forms of the disease lies in the severity and extent of the symptoms. In early arthritis, the symptoms are usually less pronounced and may only appear intermittently. This distinguishes it from more advanced forms, where symptoms are constant and much more intense.
It is worth noting that early arthritis can affect people of all ages, but is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged and older people. Younger people, especially those who are physically active, can also experience early arthritis symptoms, especially if they are exposed to risk factors such as injury or chronic joint strain.
Causes and risk factor
Early arthritis can be caused by a number of factors, including genetic, environmental and also lifestyle aspects. Understanding these factors is key to the prevention and early diagnosis of this condition.
- Genetic factors: genetics play an important role in the development of early arthritis. People with a family history of arthritis are more likely to develop the disease. Although the specific genes responsible for arthritis have not yet been fully identified, research shows a strong link between family history and risk of the disease.
- Environmental factors: certain environmental risk factors also contribute to the development of early arthritis. Long-term exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, such as tobacco smoke, can increase the risk of inflammation in the body, including the joints.
- Lifestyle: Many aspects of lifestyle, such as diet, physical activity and body weight, can influence the risk of developing early arthritis. An inappropriate diet, rich in processed foods and poor in nutrients, can lead to inflammation in the body. Being overweight or obese increases the load on the joints, which can contribute to their faster wear and tear. Lack of physical activity can also weaken joints and muscles, which in turn increases the risk of inflammation.
- Age: Although early arthritis can affect people of any age, the risk increases with age. This is related to changes in joint structure and function that naturally occur as we age.
- Gender: women are more likely than men to experience some forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis. Sex hormones may play a role in this difference.
- Injuries and strains: Joint injuries and strains caused by intense exercise or prolonged physical work can increase the risk of early arthritis. Joint injuries promote the development of inflammation and degeneration.
Understanding these risk factors allows you to better manage your joint health and take preventative measures such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise and weight control. Risk awareness and early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of more serious joint problems in the future.
Symptoms
Recognising early arthritis requires care and attention because its symptoms can be subtle and easy to miss. One of the first signs that should worry us is morning joint stiffness. This slight but bothersome stiffness, especially felt just after waking up, can be the first warning sign. It usually does not last long, but its regular occurrence should make you think twice.
Another early symptom to look out for is mild but constant joint pain. This pain, although not as intense as in the later stages of the disease, can be distressing, especially after physical activity or at the end of the day. It is equally important to pay attention to any subtle changes in the joints, such as slight swelling or a warm feeling, which may indicate an inflammatory process.
It is no less important to notice a reduction in the range of movement in the joints. Even if the initial restrictions in mobility seem insignificant, they can be early signals of arthritis. Loss of joint flexibility, although often underestimated, is an important indicator that should not be ignored.
Patients may also experience a sensation of crepitation, or crunching in the joints during movement. This symptom, although often considered harmless, can actually be an early sign of inflammatory changes in the articular cartilage.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosing early arthritis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination. The doctor may ask about the history of symptoms, their intensity and duration, as well as any factors that may exacerbate pain or stiffness. The physical examination usually includes an assessment of the condition of the joints, their mobility and any swelling.
To further understand the causes of joint problems, imaging tests such as X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound are often used. These methods allow detailed imaging of joint structures and assessment of any changes associated with inflammation. Additionally, blood tests can be used to identify inflammatory markers or other indicators that may point to arthritis.
In terms of treatment, the approach is usually multifaceted and depends on the individual patient's needs. A core element of therapy is pain and inflammation management. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be used for this purpose. In some cases, depending on the cause of the arthritis, disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs) or corticosteroids may also be used.
It is equally important to make lifestyle changes. Regular, moderate physical activity, such as swimming or yoga, can help maintain joint mobility and reduce pain. It is also advisable to maintain a healthy body weight, which can help to reduce joint strain and alleviate symptoms.
Diet also plays a role in managing early arthritis. Eating foods rich in anti-inflammatory components, such as omega-3s, vegetables and fruit, can support overall joint health.
In some cases, early arthritis may require a more individualised approach, including physical therapy, lifestyle counselling or psychological support. The key to successful treatment is for the patient to work closely with the medical team to find the best strategies to manage the condition and maintain activities of daily living.