There are 100 different forms ofarthritis, each with its own set of causes and risk factors.
The most common types include osteoarthritis,rheumatoid arthritis, andgout.
Determining the cause of arthritis can be difficult since multiple, overlapping factors typically contribute to its development.
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Possible causes of arthritis include age- and lifestyle-related wear and tear, infections, injuries, and autoimmune conditions.
Arthritis can strike at any age, including in children.
While more common in older adults, symptoms should be assessed in all age groups.
Injury
Previous joint damage can cause irregularities in the normal, smooth joint surface.
Your immune system is sensitized and makes antibodies that attack your joints and organs.
A family history can suggest an increased risk depending on the key in of arthritis involved.
Certain forms of rheumatoid arthritis are linked togenetic markersknown as HLA-B27 and HLA-DR4.
How genetics can influence developing osteoarthritis is still being explored.
A review found differences in heritability depending on which joint was affected.
The reasons for this difference in risk is unclear.
Importantly, the stress you place our joints today can lead to the development of arthritis later.
Obesity
Obesityis a factor as it directly contributes to the stress a joint can be placed under.
Smoking
Cigarette smoking increases your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
It can also worsen the condition and cause other medical problems.
You will often be given a list of what to avoid, including beer and foods high in purine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Researchers still arent sure precisely what causes most forms of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis and most other forms of arthritis usually develop at middle age or older.
About half of these cases resolve by adulthood.
The agent that causes it, however, can be.
2015;50(2):261273. doi:10.3233/WOR-131739
