World Arthritis Day: More than 350 million people around the world suffer from musculoskeletal diseases like arthritis, including diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The effect of arthritis has a profound impact on a person's lifestyle, mobility, mental health, and daily activities. In such a situation, World Arthritis Day (World Arthritis Day 2024) is celebrated every year on 12 October. In such a situation, today we will know from the doctor about its symptoms and preventive measures.

Dr. Hemant Sharma, Chairman, Department of Orthopaedics (Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery), Meringo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, said that arthritis is a broad term that refers to more than 100 conditions that cause inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. It includes major types such as osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), gout, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

In India, more than 180 million people suffer from arthritis and its prevalence is higher than diseases like diabetes, AIDS, and cancer. Especially osteoarthritis, which is more common in women and usually affects people after the age of 45.

If you have arthritis, you may complain of pain and swelling in the joints, lack of flexibility, stiffness of joints in the morning, and feeling of heat in the joints.

• How to protect yourself-

Some simple measures can be taken to prevent arthritis and reduce pain. Regular exercise like yoga and stretching helps in maintaining the flexibility of joints. It is also important to maintain proper body weight, because excess weight puts pressure on the joints, which increases the risk of arthritis.

A balanced diet that includes green vegetables, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids such as fish reduces inflammation. Drinking enough water keeps the body hydrated and improves joint function.

Hot and cold compresses can be effective in reducing pain. Apart from this, medicines or physiotherapy can be used on the advice of a doctor. Avoiding mental stress and doing meditation can also help control pain. Taking timely advice from a doctor and starting the right treatment can prevent arthritis from worsening.