What Is Arthritis? Signs, Symptoms, and When to Seek Care

Have you ever struggled to open a jar, climb stairs, or get out of bed because your joints were stiff or painful? That might not just be age, it could be arthritis, a condition that affects millions worldwide, including young adults. One in four adults in the world suffer from arthritis—and many of them are in their 30s or even younger. The Hard-Hitting Facts Over 350 million people globally suffer from arthritis. In India alone, more than 180 million people have arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form, especially in women over 50. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects over 14 million people worldwide and can strike as early as age 20. So, What Exactly Is Arthritis? Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints that causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. There are over 100 types of arthritis, but the most common include: Osteoarthritis (OA): Wear-and-tear damage to the joints, often due to aging or injury. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own joints. Psoriatic Arthritis, Gout, Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Juvenile Arthritis are other common forms. What Are the Symptoms? Arthritis symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly. Common signs include: Joint pain or tenderness Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes Swelling in or around the joints Reduced range of motion Warmth or redness over a joint