Debunking Myths About Arthritis
Debunking Myths About Arthritis
Arthritis is the most common and disabling chronic condition worldwide. In spite of that, there are still a lot of misconceptions and myths surrounding arthritis. Below are some of the most common myths about arthritis:
Arthritis is just aches and pains
Although the most telling symptom of arthritis is aches and pains at various parts of the body, some arthritis have more serious implications than just normal pain. For instance, some arthritis can affect the body’s internal organs and deform the joints. The best example of this is Rheumatoid Arthritis, which affects the joints and causes inflammation of the blood vessels, lung tissues and blood abnormality.
Arthritis only happens to old people
An increasing number of young people, especially those in their prime ages of 25-40, are getting arthritis worldwide. Rates of childhood arthritis are also rising worldwide. As such, it is time to dispel the myth that arthritis is just a natural part of growing old. It can happen to anyone at any age.
Arthritis only happens to women
While it is true that women are more likely to be affected and to be affected more seriously (2 out of 3 women over 65 have OA), more than half of all men over 65 will also have OA. Ankylosing Spondalytis, a chronic arthritis of the spine, affects young men more than young women.
People with arthritis need to rest their painful joints a lot
Arthritis has its stages of flares and remission. When the patient is having a flare, they have to minimise strenuous activities that may injure their joints. However, during remission, they are advised to stay active as much as possible so as to maintain the flexibility of their joints and to strengthen their muscles. Exercise has positive effects on the patient physical and psychological condition.
Nothing can be done to treat arthritis
While it is true that arthritis is not curable, a lot can be done to improve the life of a patient with arthritis. This includes pain management methods and medications to stop the progression of the disease and joint deformities called ‘disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs’ . New developments in arthritis treatment, such as new drugs, exercise programmes and surgeries, can return a patient’s quality of life.
I can treat my arthritis myself with over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Admittedly, many arthritis sufferers do this, with some finding relief from OTC medications. However, some arthritis such as Rheumatoid Arthritis can have a more severe impact if not properly diagnosed and treated. It may start off as just minor aches and pains, but if left undiagnosed and untreated, it can become a significant disability such as chronic pain, immobility and joint deformity.
People with arthritis are handicapped by their disease
According to the American Arthritis Foundation, one of the most exciting changes in recent years has been the growing understanding that the patient has an important role to play in the management of his or her arthritis.
This change in emphasis is referred to as a ‘biopsychosocial’ model of disease management, as opposed to the traditional ‘biomedical’ model, where the outcomes of diseases are determined almost exclusively by the health professionals.
This means that you can still decide to make the most of your life. People who choose to actively fight their disease are able to live their life to the fullest. Work closely with your healthcare team so that they can guide you to wellness.
How to tell myth from truth
When you have arthritis, everyone- from your relatives, friends right down to the fishmonger at your market- offers you a bit of unsolicited advice. How can you deal with that?
1) Be well-informed about your disease.
2) Know the drug you are taking, why you need it and its side effects.
3) Learn about lifestyle changes to cope better.
4) Get information from credited sources such as Arthritis Foundation Malaysia.
5) Resist the temptation to try dubious treatment methods. As the say- if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
|
