Arthritis is extremely common. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 53 million U.S. adults have arthritis, and that number is constantly increasing as life expectancy goes up. While managing arthritis of the hands has become easier in recent years, it can still be a struggle for those living with it day-to-day. If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with arthritis, it is important to know how it is going to change your life and the difficulties it will introduce.
What Is Arthritis?
First, let’s make sure you understand exactly what arthritis is. Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation, pain, and swelling in the joints and surrounding tissues. Common symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, and weakness. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, but the most common are:
● Osteoarthritis: This form of arthritis is caused by wear and tear, usually from performing the same repetitive motion over and over again for years. It occurs when the protective cartilage that caps the bones naturally wears down over time, causing bones to rub against each other.
● Rheumatoid Arthritis: This type of arthritis is an autoimmune disease. It causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack the lining of the joint capsules (synovium), leading to painful inflammation and potential bone erosion.
Regardless of which type of arthritis you suffer from, the symptoms and effect on your life will largely be the same.
Everyday Activities That Become More Difficult
Unfortunately, arthritis affects almost every part of your life. Everyday activities that you once performed without a second thought, become exercises in patience and self control.
Household Tasks
Keeping a home becomes much more difficult. You will likely have difficulty opening jars and other containers. Additionally, cooking becomes much more strenuous. The fine motor movements necessary to prepare a dish will become painful. This can even be dangerous when the use of a knife or other sharp cooking instrument is necessary. The same is true of cleaning. Many people with advanced arthritis find it necessary to have someone else prepare their meals and hire a cleaning service.
Personal Care
Think about the amount of time you spend on your hygiene and appearance each day. These activities will become more difficult, if not impossible. Buttoning shirts, brushing teeth, and combing hair will all be restricted by your pain level and limited range of motion. This is often one of the most difficult parts of arthritis. People’s mental health usually suffers as they feel that they can no longer sufficiently take care of themselves.
Technology Use
Technology, such as tablets, smartphones, and computers, has become a huge part of modern life. Unfortunately, all of these require a certain level of finger dexterity to properly operate. As you may have guessed, this means that it can be difficult for those suffering from arthritis to use technology. With how much we rely on smartphones to communicate now, this can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Sleep and Fatigue
A good night’s rest is something that most people take for granted. It is only when you have sleep issues that you realize just how much of a blessing sleeping through the night is. Arthritis pain is usually at its worst at night. This often leads to the inability to sleep, which causes grogginess and fatigue the next day. A lack of sleep will impact every other part of your life. Additionally, with not enough sleep, you will likely experience irritability.
Getting Help
Fortunately, this does not have to be your reality. Find a doctor close by that can help you. For example, if you are in Boston, find a hand specialist Massachusetts residents swear by. They will be able to:
● Identify the specific type and severity of arthritis affecting your hand.
● Recommend non-surgical treatments such as splinting, therapy, medications, or injections.
● Discuss surgical options when conservative care is no longer effective.
With the right doctor, your symptoms can be managed, allowing you to continue living your life as you always have.
