JOINT pain is commonly associated with the elderly, but this perception often means arthritis goes undiagnosed in younger people.
There are many types of arthritis but the one most people are aware of is osteoarthritis, which is caused by degeneration of the cartilage in our joints due to wear and tear.
Osteoarthritis is most commonly known to the public, which is why they tend to associate arthritis with ageing, says Pantai Hospital Ayer Keroh consultant rheumatologist and internal medicine specialist Dr Nicole Tee Ying Chew.
However, rheumatoid arthritis or RA, for example, strikes those in the prime of their lives, usually between the ages of 30 and 50.
Dr Tee says RA is a form of inflammatory arthritis and it's related to an imbalance in the immune system, where it mistakenly attacks the body's own joints and organs.
"RA is an autoimmune disease and the impact can be huge on those individuals who are leading full productive lives."
DON'T IGNORE PAIN
Most people don't connect their symptoms to RA initially. Given their age, they tend to dismiss it as signs of work fatigue, or strain, and take painkillers to manage symptoms.
Only when these symptoms, or episodes become worse, do they finally seek medical advice.
"Some patients only come for treatment when deformities have already set in."
If undiagnosed and untreated, the condition can worsen till patients can't even move their wrists, or perform simple tasks like holding a spoon, or opening a door.
Dr Tee says while the exact cause of RA is unknown, certain factors do increase the risk, and these include smoking and poor oral hygiene which leads to periodontal disease. Genetic factors are also at play. Having a family history of the disease does increase the risk.
"With proper medication and monitoring, we can help those with RA to keep their symptoms under control and lead fairly normal lives although there is no cure for the condition."
For osteoarthritis, on the other hand, risk factors include ageing, obesity and even any kind of joint injury at a younger age.
Dr Tee says with osteoarthritis, in most cases, once the condition is severe, patients would need knee replacement surgery.
"The key message is that joint pain should not be ignored whatever your age. This is especially true for recurrent joint pain. Pay attention and get it checked out."
Types Of Arthritis
Osteoarthritis
The most common form. Usually associated with wear and tear, and ageing.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Lesser known, but can be highly debilitating if not treated. It's an auto-immune disease.
Gout
A form of inflammatory arthritis. Diet modification is part of treatment.
Axial Spondyloarthritis
Generally impacts the spine, but can affect other joints too.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Affects those who suffer from psoriasis, the skin condition.
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