Hand Swelling, Joint Pain and Other Symptoms of Arthritis

The term arthritis encompasses many specific conditions. One thing these ailments have in common is the pain and swelling that is symptomatic of their presence.

With joints, swelling occurs when greater than normal amounts of fluid are present in the tissue surrounding the joints. This increase in size around these locations is a symptom of several conditions While arthritis is often thought of as an ailment of older people, rheumatoid arthritis can arise at any age. Even young children are not immune to its effects. Hand swelling, and swelling in the knees and feet are common signals of this affliction. These symptoms can make daily activities very difficult because of the pain and the limited flexibility and movement in the joints.

Maybe the most notable thing about gout is the suddenness at which attacks happen when this form of arthritis is present. In about three quarters of cases, gout attacks occur in the big toe. The reason for this is yet to be determined. The attack usually involves swelling, warmth, redness and severe pain and tenderness. While the big toe appears to be the primary target, other joints can be affected as well. Hand swelling around the finger joints sometimes happens.

Certain foods can trigger these attacks. There seems to be some confusion in identifying all the culprits, but a doctor can give you a list of foods to definitely stay away from. With gout, uric acid, which is normally found in the body, begins to form deposits in the joints. This is the origins of the problem.

We said that arthritis is often associated with aging. This is generally true with osteoarthritis. However, it might be more accurate to say it is associated with the wearing and attrition of the joints that normally takes place over time. This condition is prevalent in the weight bearing joints, such as the knees and hips.
There are many other forms of arthritis, each one with its own distinction.