Rheumatism is a health problem that is not only seen in the elderly, but also in young people today. There are more than 100 types of arthritis in science that affect the joints and the muscles around them. This is caused by wear and tear on the joints and malfunctions in the body’s immune system. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind the occurrence of arthritis:
Cartilage Wear and Tear in the joints: This is the main reason for the occurrence of osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. Cartilage is a cushion layer that helps prevent the bones in our joints from rubbing against each other. As we age or due to obesity, this layer wears out and the bones rub directly against each other, causing severe pain and swelling. This usually affects the knees.
Autoimmune Response: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes severe joint pain and stiffness. In this, the body’s immune system attacks its own joint cells as an enemy instead of fighting germs, causing severe inflammation and damage.
Gout: Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of proteins in the food we eat. When the kidneys do not excrete it properly or its production increases in the body, uric acid turns into crystals (Monosodium urate) and accumulates in the joints. This causes gout. The pain usually starts in the big toe.
Heredity and Genetics: If a parent has a history of rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis (an inflammatory disease of the spine), the next generation is more likely to have it due to genetic factors.
Vitamin deficiency and chronic infections: When there is a severe deficiency of vitamin D3 and calcium in the body, the strength of the bones decreases, which can cause excessive stress on the joints and lead to arthritis. In addition, arthritis can occur in the joints after certain bacterial and viral infections (for example, chikungunya) (Reactive Arthritis).
