Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is when your joints become swollen, stiff, and painful. It can affect just one joint or multiple joints in the body. Some people experience arthritis gradually over time, while others may wake up one day and feel severe joint pain.

In Africa, many people especially older adults experience arthritis but do not seek medical help. Instead, they may attribute their pain to aging, excessive physical labor, or even supernatural causes. However, arthritis is a real medical condition that can be managed to improve quality of life.

How common is arthritis in Africa?

  • Arthritis is one of the most common joint conditions in Africa, especially among older people and those who have physically demanding jobs such as farmers, market traders, and construction workers.
  • Studies show that 1 in 5 adults over the age of 50 in Africa has some form of arthritis.
  • Women are more likely to develop arthritis than men.
  • Osteoarthritis, the most common type, affects more than 80% of people over 65 years worldwide, and Africa is no exception.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

People with arthritis experience different symptoms, depending on the type they have. However, common symptoms include:

  • Joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for long hours.
  • Swelling and tenderness in one or more joints.
  • Difficulty moving the affected joints.
  • A clicking or cracking sound when bending the joint.
  • Weakness in the muscles surrounding the joint.
  • Fatigue, fever, and weight loss (in some types of arthritis).

Types of arthritis?

There are different types of arthritis, but the most common ones are:

Osteoarthritis (OA) – The “wear and tear” arthritis

Osteoarthritis happens when the protective cartilage in your joints wears down over time, causing bones to rub against each other. It mostly affects older people but can also develop in younger people who do hard labor or have had joint injuries.

Causes of osteoarthritis:

  • Aging (common in people over 50).
  • Repeated use of a joint over time.
  • Injuries, such as fractures or dislocations.
  • Obesity (excess weight puts pressure on the joints).
  • Family history of arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – The “autoimmune” arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own joints, leading to inflammation and damage.

Signs of rheumatoid arthritis:

  • Joint pain, swelling, and redness in both hands, feet, or knees.
  • Stiffness that lasts longer than 30 minutes in the morning.
  • Fatigue, weight loss, and fever.
  • In severe cases, damage to the eyes, heart, and blood vessels.

Common myths about arthritis in Africa?

Many people in Africa believe arthritis is caused by supernatural forces or diet, but here are some common myths and the truth:

  • Myth: Eating certain foods like beans, cassava, or plantains causes arthritis.
  • Truth: Diet alone does not cause arthritis. However, unhealthy eating and obesity can make arthritis worse.
  • Myth: Only old people get arthritis.
  • Truth: While it is more common in older adults, young people can develop arthritis due to genetics, injuries, or autoimmune diseases.
  • Myth: Applying herbal ointments and drinking herbal mixtures can cure arthritis.
  • Truth: Some traditional remedies may help with pain, but they do not cure arthritis. It is best to combine traditional care with medical treatment.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose arthritis by:

  • Physical examination: Checking for swelling, stiffness, and tenderness in joints.
  • X-rays and MRI scans: To see damage inside the joints.
  • Blood tests: To check for inflammation and autoimmune markers.

How is arthritis treated?

There is no cure for arthritis, but the symptoms can be managed to help people live a painfree life.

Medications

  • Pain relievers (e.g., Paracetamol, Ibuprofen) help reduce pain.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., Diclofenac, Naproxen) reduce swelling.
  • Steroids (e.g., Prednisone) are used in severe cases to control inflammation.
  • Disease-modifyingdrugs (e.g., Methotrexate) help prevent joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis.

Lifestyle changes to reduce arthritis pain

  • Exercise regularly: Walking, swimming, and stretching can help keep joints flexible.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight puts extra pressure on your knees and hips.
  • Eat a balanced diet: Foods like fish, nuts, and vegetables help reduce inflammation.
  • Avoid too much red meat and processed foods: These can worsen joint pain.
  • Use hot and cold therapy: Applying warm water or ice packs to painful joints can relieve pain.

Surgery (for severe cases)

If arthritis becomes too severe and medications do not work, doctors may recommend surgery to replace the affected joint, especially in the knees or hips.

Final message: Take arthritis seriously? Arthritis is common, but it does not mean you have to live in pain forever. Taking care of your joints, eating well, and staying active can help you manage arthritis and live a healthier life. If you experience joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, see a doctor or health professional for early treatment. Your health matters.