It is often thought that arthritis and rheumatism are conditions that affect older people. While these ailments are indeed prevalent among adults who are much advanced in age, younger can also develop arthritis and rheumatism. When either of these conditions arise at an early age, an individual’s quality of life is impacted and can be diminished without proper management. Hence, if your risk of developing arthritis and rheumatism at an early age is high, it is recommended that you visit a rheumatology clinic in Singapore to get a better understanding and treatment of these conditions.
Arthritis and Rheumatism
Arthritis and rheumatism refer to specific conditions, but it is not uncommon for these terms to be used interchangeably. It is important to know the difference between these ailments.
Arthritis is a condition that occurs when the joints become inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and swelling. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There are more than 100 kinds of arthritis.
Rheumatism, which is a term used more broadly, pertains to a variety of conditions that cause pain to the connective tissues and joints of the body. This covers a wide range of diseases that includes fibromyalgia, lupus, other autoimmune conditions, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Incidence of Arthritis and Rheumatism among Younger Adults
In Singapore, rheumatoid arthritis is prevalent among younger adults, especially females, and onset of the condition can happen between the age of 20 to 45. The root cause of RA is not known, but those who have this in their family medical history may inherit it. The onset of RA or any type of arthritis and rheumatism can alter the habits of younger individuals, especially when they are in the peak of building their families and careers or are engaged in an active lifestyle.
The most common type of arthritis that affect younger adults are:
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
- Reactive Arthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) – This condition affects the spine causing inflammation that brings chronic, severe pain and stiffness. AS may occur in late adolescence or early years of adulthood. When left untreated overtime, this can lead to the vertebrae’s fusion.
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) – As the name implies, this condition typically develops in children. Its symptoms can be brought into adulthood without proper management and the chronic inflammation leaves a negative impact on an individual’s daily life.
Reactive Arthritis – This condition usually affects the gastrointestinal or urogenital systems following an infection. It is common among adults who are between the age of 20 and 30 years old.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – This is considered an autoimmune disease that particularly arises anywhere between people who are in their 30s to 60s. RA occurs when the immune system begins to attack the lining of the joints, called the synovium, mistaking it as a harmful element. As a result, the joints become inflamed and damaged. Signs of RA include fatigue, pain, stiffness, and swelling that affect certain symmetrical parts of the body at the same time.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) – Psoriatic Arthritis is linked to another medical condition specifically affecting the skin called Psoriasis. This ailment can develop in individuals who are in their 30s to 50s. The skin lesions caused by psoriasis are accompanied by joint pain and swelling.
Diagnosing Arthritis and Rheumatism
Symptoms of arthritis and rheumatism in younger adults include chronic pain in the joints, fatigue, stiffness particularly experienced in the morning, swelling, or fevers that have unknown causes. It is recommended that you seek the advice of a specialist if you are experiencing these conditions. The chances of being able to better manage the painful effects of these conditions are high when they are diagnosed early and interventions are set in place.
To diagnose arthritis and rheumatism conditions, you will be asked to:
- Get a consultation and physical exam done by a doctor that specialises in this medical field. A thorough evaluation of your symptoms as well as a review of your family medical history is completed to give an accurate diagnosis.
- Undergo blood tests such as anti-CCP antibodies, inflammatory markers, and anti-CCP antibodies.
- Complete imaging tests like MRIs, X-rays or ultrasounds to help assess inflammation and damage in the joint.
Managing Arthritis and Rheumatism
Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for arthritis and rheumatic diseases. However, there are many treatments that can help manage their symptoms and make life easier for those who have been diagnosed with these conditions. Here are ways that can improve your quality of life:
- Alternative therapies: Yoga, meditation, and acupuncture may be combined with traditional treatments to improve one’s overall wellbeing and minimise stress.
- Lifestyle changes: Consumption of fruits, vegetables, food rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and whole grains is recommended. Regular exercise through low-impact activities and maintaining a healthy weight is also important to strengthen joint function and reduce stress.
- Medications: This include biologics, corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
- Physical therapy: Customised exercise programmes that address the specific needs of an individual can help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint.
Hidden Impacts of Arthritis and Rheumatism to Younger Adults
Young adults who are diagnosed with arthritis and rheumatic conditions suffer not only the physical impacts of the chronic symptoms, but they may also experience emotional and mental frailty as a result of the pain and debilitating factors affecting joint function. Because the symptoms pose limitations to mobility, many may prefer to isolate themselves rather than engage with peers.
It is important that younger adults who have joint problems as a result of arthritis and rheumatism receive not only medical help, but mental health support as well. Professional counselling or being a part of support groups can present opportunities to socialise with individuals and healthcare experts who have a deep understanding of the nuances of arthritis and rheumatism. These social circles are valuable as they provide an avenue for similar individuals to share information and their experiences in dealing with arthritis and rheumatism.
Dr. Annie Law, Senior Consultant Rheumatologist and Medical Director
Asia Arthritis & Rheumatology Centre
Mt. Elizabeth Hospital
3 Mt Elizabeth #05-03
Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
https://aarc.sg/
+65 8030 7862