It’s disturbing to think that your body’s own defence system, which is meant to protect you, can sometimes become the very reason for damage. This is exactly what happens in inflammatory arthritis , which is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike regular wear-and-tear, this type of arthritis is more aggressive and often occurs in the prime of life and spreads beyond just the joints. Hence, it is important to watch out for early signs and take timely action to prevent dependency.

Common symptoms to watch
Your joints cry for help before the actual damage takes place. Early detection can make a huge difference in protecting mobility and preventing lifelong damage.

• Joint pain and swelling: Continuous pain or swelling, especially in joints of fingers, wrists, that often last for weeks, is a sign that the joints are not doing well.
• Morning stiffness: If your joints feel locked or sore for more than 30 minutes after waking up, it’s not normal and must be checked immediately
• Fatigue and low fever: Inflammation in the joints can lead to dizziness or even fever that can drain your energy.
• Symmetrical pain: When both sides of the body hurt, such as pain in both the knees or wrists, then it may indicate inflammatory arthritis.
• Unexplained weight loss: Chronic inflammation affects metabolism, leading to subtle weight changes.

Ways to save your joints
Managing inflammatory arthritis is all about calming the immune system and protecting joint function, which can be done by following a simple approach for the body.

• Medications: Medications may help to control the inflammation and prevent joint damage at an earlier stage.
• Physical activeness: Gentle exercises such as walking, running, and light weight training improve flexibility, strengthen the muscles, and maintain joint alignment.
• Diet and lifestyle: A balanced diet that is rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, omega-3s 3s and whole grains is important that helps to control inflammation.
• Stress control: Small practices like yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep help reduce flare-ups that are caused due to emotional stress.
• Treatment options: Regular check-ups can save the joint from major changes. In extreme cases, joint replacement or joint fusion surgeries are to be performed for a better life ahead.

Inflammatory arthritis is more than just joint pain, it’s a systemic disease that requires timely attention. Ignoring early symptoms can lead to permanent disability, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, most people can lead active, fulfilling lives. If you get regular check-ups done at the first signs of the problem and adopt good habits for your joint health, then you will be able to move freely without any restrictions.

Dr. Rajesh Kumar Verma, Consultant – Orthopedic, Manipal hospital Ghaziabad