Arthritis Symptoms in Hands

Arthritis is a leading cause of disability in the United States. It costs the US economy around $124 billion dollars annually in medical care and other indirect expenses. Arthritis affects every aspect of human life resulting in health problems, physical disability, and dependence on others for assistance. It is the need of the hour to change the picture before it takes an ugly shape. As the population is on the rise, the patients of arthritis are also increasing.

Arthritis in the Hands

Arthritis in the hands or wrist is mostly caused by osteoarthritis which is a result of usual degradation of your joints. The joint which is situated at the base of the thumb is the one which is commonly affected. The joint of the wrist also comes under the clutches of arthritis. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are seen commonly among Americans at an early age. Women are more prone to have arthritis at a younger age compared to men. According to a survey, 40% of the American women over the age of 60 have arthritis in thumbs or other parts of the hand and wrist. It is very important to identify the arthritis signs and symptoms at an early stage. It helps to control serious implications and take the right kind of medical assistance. Now let us understand the arthritis symptoms in hands to tackle arthritis in a effective way.

Arthritis Symptoms in Hands

Stiffness: Stiffness in hands can occur due to various other conditions and injuries. It is advisable not to ignore this symptom and take medical help as early as possible. It has been noted that stiffness in the hands and fingers are early symptoms of arthritis in hands. If treated at an early stage, it can prevent further complications.

Pain: Many people ignore joint pain in hands as they think it might be due to using the computer for a long time or sleeping on the hands. These symptoms should be taken seriously. If you have the slightest doubt or if you find that the pain in the hands occur on a regular basis, it's time to get it diagnosed right away.

Swelling: There are various reasons for swelling in hands. It may occur because of the overuse of hands which is a part of daily life. Swelling in hands can also be related to diseases associated with the heart or diabetes. Hence, only after ruling out these medical conditions, it can be confirmed whether the symptoms are a result of arthritis. But in reality, swelling in hands is the most common symptom of arthritis. So, it is necessary to go for a medical treatment as soon as possible.

Heberden's Node: This is a common term used for the deformity of the finger joints. Keep a check on the changes which are taking place in your joints. If the size or shape of your finger joints is giving the fingers, a knobby or a bony look, get it checked for arthritis. This appearance is said to be an early symptom before the pain or stiffness sets in, which ultimately leads to arthritis.

Treatments for Hand Arthritis

There are various ways of arthritis treatment. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications are very effective in treating hand arthritis. Usually, these medications are the first treatment given to the patients of hand arthritis. Rehabilitation techniques are practiced where the movements of hands and wrist are given enough rest so that the joints can speedily recover from the pain.

Physical therapy is another effective way to tackle the illness of arthritis. Special exercises are designed for the patients of arthritis, which help them in loosening the stiffened muscles and joints. Pain killers and steroids are also injected in the affected area. It is a temporary treatment provided to the patient to get him out of pain. Doctors also recommend an arthritis diet to be followed which can help in treating arthritis.

Surgery is the last option used for the treatment of hand arthritis. The patient of hand arthritis will be evaluated carefully before going forward with the surgery. The patient's overall health, age, weight, risk involved in surgery are taken into consideration.

Though arthritis is a serious illness, an early detection can prevent further complications. Arthritis symptoms in hands can be effectively treated and managed with rehabilitation technique and physical therapy done under medical supervision.