Introduction When the immune system overreacts to a substance that most people believe to be harmless, it might result in an allergic reaction. These substances are known as allergens, and they can include things like pollen, certain foods, pet dander, insect stings, and even some medications. The immune system attempts to fight off these chemicals…
Rheumatoid Arthritis vs Osteoarthritis: What Are They? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) are common forms of arthritis. Both leads to joint pain and joint degeneration, but they are unrelated disorders. RA is an autoimmune disorder. It happens when your immune system does not function properly. When you’re healthy, your immune system Eliminates invaders like…
Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: What is It? Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (sJIA) is a rare but severe form of juvenile arthritis that affects children. Unlike other types, it involves joint inflammation and systemic symptoms such as high fevers, rash, and inflammation of internal organs. Flare-ups of arthritis, fever, and rash in children characterize systemic juvenile…
Psoriatic Arthritis: What Is It? Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that combines joint inflammation (arthritis) with skin lesions of psoriasis. It is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often in the fingers, toes, and spine. One frequent condition that affects…
Rheumatoid Arthritis Rashes: What is it? Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Rashes are skin manifestations that can occur in individuals with RA, an autoimmune disorder primarily affecting the joints. These rashes may result from inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis), medication side effects, or immune system activity. An autoimmune condition known as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) occurs when the…
Introduction Bouchard’s nodes, which are bony nodules, also called osteophytes, that form on the middle joint of the fingers and are commonly caused by osteoarthritis, may be the source of pain and stiffness in the finger. Bouchard’s nodes are fluid cysts or hard, bony protuberances on the proximal interphalangeal joints, which are the middle joints…
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, inflammation, and potential joint damage over time. Early detection is crucial for managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. Recognizing the early warning signs of RA, such as joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue, can help ensure timely intervention and improved quality…
What is a Pseudogout? Pseudogout (calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease, CPPD) is a type of arthritis characterized by sudden, painful swelling in one or more joints, often the knee. It is caused by the deposition of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joint cartilage, leading to inflammation. Symptoms resemble those of gout, but instead of uric acid…
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to the gradual loss of muscle control. It primarily damages motor neurons, resulting in muscle weakness, atrophy, and eventually, paralysis. While the exact cause of ALS is often unknown, a small percentage of cases are…
Arthritis is a broad term for conditions causing inflammation and pain in the joints. It affects people of all ages, with the most common types being osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder. Symptoms often include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. Management strategies vary depending on the…
