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.