All around the world, individuals suffer from rheumatic diseases Catonsville and may be looking for more information about these common conditions. Despite being fairly frequent, you might not know much about rheumatic diseases, sometimes also referred to as musculoskeletal diseases, especially beyond the particularly common condition of arthritis. However, understanding them can help you stay vigilant in your own life, and empathize with others who are afflicted. Take a look at these interesting facts you might not have known before.
1. They Encompass a Multitude of Diseases
Arthritis is perhaps the most famous of the rheumatic diseases, but there are actually over 200 different ones, some of which you may never have heard of. For instance, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, gout, Crohn’s disease and lupus are all part of the rheumatic disease family. As you read about the multitude of rheumatic conditions out there, it may become easier to grasp how widespread they are.
2. Different Factors Increase Your Risk
If you’re hoping to decrease your risk of developing a rheumatic disease, there are several risk factors to be aware of. These include overusing or injuring your joints, smoking, aging and being overweight. While genetics do play a role, some lifestyle changes can help decrease your risk.
3. Symptoms Typically Involve Joint Pain
While the symptoms for rheumatic diseases vary with each specific condition, a common hallmark is joint pain. Other signs to look out for include inflammation like swelling or redness, loss of flexibility, and persistent fatigue or weakness.
Whether arthritis has affected someone in your family directly, you’re suffering from a rheumatic disease yourself or you simply want to understand more about these diseases that affect so many people worldwide every day, knowledge is the key to staying prepared and vigilant about potential symptoms. Now that you understand them better, remember to consult your doctor if you suspect you may be developing a rheumatic disease.