Arthritis is caused by a variety of factors that can differ depending on the specific type of arthritis. Here are some common causes and contributing factors for the most prevalent forms of arthritis:
1. Osteoarthritis (OA)
Causes:
- Wear and Tear: Osteoarthritis is primarily caused by the natural degeneration of joint cartilage over time.
- Joint Injury: Previous injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can lead to osteoarthritis later in life.
- Repetitive Stress: Repetitive movements or overuse of certain joints can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
- Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase the risk.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Causes:
- Autoimmune Response: RA is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium (lining of the joints), causing inflammation and joint damage.
- Genetics: Certain genetic markers, such as HLA-DR4, increase susceptibility to RA.
- Environmental Factors: Smoking, exposure to silica dust, and certain infections may trigger the onset of RA in genetically predisposed individuals.
- Hormonal Factors: Hormonal changes, particularly in women, may play a role in the development of RA.
3. Psoriatic Arthritis
Causes:
- Psoriasis: Psoriatic arthritis occurs in some people who have psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches.
- Immune System: Similar to RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, leading to joint inflammation.
- Genetics: Family history of psoriatic arthritis or psoriasis increases the risk.
- Environmental Triggers: Infections or physical trauma can trigger psoriatic arthritis in susceptible individuals.
4. Gout
Causes:
- Uric Acid Build-Up: Gout occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, causing inflammation and pain.
- Diet: High intake of purine-rich foods (e.g., red meat, shellfish) and alcohol can increase uric acid levels.
- Genetics: A family history of gout increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
- Obesity: Excess weight can lead to higher levels of uric acid in the blood.
- Kidney Function: Reduced kidney function can impair uric acid excretion.
5. Ankylosing Spondylitis
Causes:
- Genetics: The presence of the HLA-B27 gene is strongly associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Autoimmune Response: The immune system attacks the joints of the spine, causing inflammation.
- Environmental Factors: Certain infections may trigger the disease in genetically predisposed individuals.
6. Juvenile Arthritis
Causes:
- Autoimmune Factors: Like RA, juvenile arthritis involves the immune system attacking the joint lining.
- Genetics: Family history of autoimmune diseases can increase the risk.
- Environmental Triggers: Infections or other environmental factors may play a role.
General Contributing Factors
Age
- Aging: The risk of many types of arthritis increases with age due to the cumulative wear and tear on the joints.
Gender
- Sex: Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more prone to gout.
Lifestyle Factors
- Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on joints, particularly weight-bearing ones, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
- Smoking: Smoking
is a known risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis and can worsen the severity of the disease.
Infections
- Certain Infections: Infections can trigger reactive arthritis or cause an autoimmune response that leads to other forms of arthritis.
Occupation
- Repetitive Motion: Jobs that involve repetitive motion or heavy lifting can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
Find out more information about Arthritis.