Osteoarthritis symptoms can vary from person to person. This will depend on various aspects like the age of the people, howlong have experienced the problem and the severity of the arthritis. There are number of key factors in recognizing the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and these are pain, inflammation, stiffness, reduced function, joint damage and tiredness.
- Pain
One of the most obvious and common symptoms is the presence of pain around the joints. The type of pain people feel differs between individuals but is often described as a burning sensation or a dull ache. It can be present when a person moves the affected limb but can also be there when the person is resting.
People who have arthritis frequently are afflicted by persistent pain. This is pain that lasts for a long time. When this occurs people may also experience other symptoms such as depression.
- Inflammation
It is common for joints affected by arthritis to become inflamed and swollen. There is an increased blood flow to the area and this can make the joints feel warm. The synovial lining of the joint can sometimes become inflamed. This process is called synovitis. There may also be an increase in the fluid present within the joint. Joints affected by inflammation can be tender to the touch.
- Stiffness
A common osteoarthritis symptom is stiffness after exercise or exertion. This is where the joint feels difficult to move. Some people also complain of stiffness if they have been sitting in a particular place for a long time. For instance they had been viewing the television for the evening, and then find it difficult to stand up.
- Reduced Function
This is the term that is used to describe joints that have become less functional than before. For instance, arthritis of the knee may mean that you are no longer able to fully bend your leg at the knee. Arthritis of the hands may mean that it is difficult to grip items such as a pen or knitting needles.
- Joint Damage
The structures of the joint and the surrounding structures may become damaged. This includes damage to both the cartilage and bone that form the joint. The tendons and muscles around the joint can also become involved in the process. In advanced cases of osteoarthritis, the joint can become deformed. This can result in people with hip arthritis walking with a limp.
- Tiredness
It is common for sufferers of arthritis to be chronically tired. This osteoarthritis symptom could be related to the pain that is a part of the condition. Chronic pain can lead to a reduced appetite for life and even depression. People with arthritis may also suffer poor sleep due to having to deal with long-term pain.
There is a great deal of variability in osteoarthritis symptons from particular person to another. Not everybody will experience each of these. If you are struggling with these symptoms, you can talk it over with your doctor or a complementary medical practitioner.