Symptoms of arthritis can appear in everyday life: from cooking to driving.
Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people in the UK. It causes pain and inflammation in the joint, and although the condition is often associated with age, it can affect people of all ages, including children.
The doctor reviewed the symptoms to watch for throughout the day.
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Symptoms that may appear in the morning
Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause increased stiffness and discomfort in the morning.
“You may notice this just by getting out of bed, or even from something as minor as bruising your teeth or going on a hike. in the bathroom. During sleep, the body tends to reduce blood circulation in the joints, which can lead to increased stiffness when you wake up,” says general practitioner Yuri Zavyalov specifically for MedicForum.
Inflammatory forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, often cause increased joint inflammation at night, leading to morning stiffness. Synovial fluid in joints acts as a lubricant and shock absorber.
“It thickens during periods of inactivity, such as sleep, and can cause joint stiffness in the morning. Additionally, the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis can cause people to use their joints less at night, leading to muscle weakness and stiffness in the morning.”
Symptoms when preparing and eating food
Arthritis of the hands and wrists can lead to discomfort and decreased grip strength.
“This can make tasks such as chopping vegetables, slicing bread, or slicing meat more difficult. difficult and painful. It can also cause difficulties when trying to open cans or other food containers, as well as your ability to hold and use utensils while eating.”
Symptoms throughout the day
Arthritis in weight-bearing joints such as the knees or hips can cause pain and stiffness when walking.
This may be one of the earliest signs of arthritis. Climbing stairs can increase joint pain, especially in the knees. If you experience discomfort when going up or down stairs, it may be a sign of arthritis. Arthritis of the hands and fingers can lead to difficulty grasping objects, which may occur during tasks such as opening cans, holding a pen, or using tools.
Repetitive tasks that place stress on joints, such as typing on a keyboard, using a mouse, or working on an assembly line, may reveal symptoms of arthritis in the hands, wrists, or elbows. If you have arthritis in the hips or lower back, sitting at a desk or in a car for long periods of time can lead to discomfort and stiffness.
Symptoms while driving
Symptoms of arthritis can affect various joints of the body, including the hands, wrists, and knees, and these symptoms may occur or worsen during activities that require repetitive movements or prolonged use of the joints, such as driving.
If you have arthritis in your hands or wrists, holding onto the steering wheel and turning it can be painful and difficult.
This discomfort may be one of the early signs of arthritis. Arthritis in the knees makes it uncomfortable to sit for long periods of time, including while driving.
“Stiffness and pain when getting in and out of a car may be an early sign. If you notice a decrease in the range of motion in your joints when pressing the steering wheel, pedals, or other controls, this may indicate arthritis.”
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.