Arthritis In Women
(continued)
Debunking the Myths, Misconceptions, and Misinformation About Arthritis:
-
Arthritis is a natural consequence of aging. False.
While the risk of OA increases with age, it should not be considered a "normal"
by-product of the aging process.
-
Arthritis only affects 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.
-
Arthritis only affects postmenopausal
women. False. Many types of arthritis actually
begin in the 20's or 30's; JRA can begin in toddlers. Arthritis is actually
the most common chronic condition among those over the age of 15; two out of
three Americans with arthritis are under age 65.
-
Arthritis is arthritis;
if I have it, I can just treat myself with over the counter medications.
While an estimated 6 million Americans subscribe to this approach, there
is a tremendous value to seeing your physician to be properly evaluated and
treated for this condition. Arthritis can start as just minor aches and pains,
but if left undiagnosed and untreated, it can become a significant disability.
-
Nothing can be done to treat arthritis. Not true.
See below!
Diagnosis:
How do you know if you have arthritis? If you think you do, see your physician
sooner rather than later; don't just try to treat yourself. Your symptomatic
and long-term treatment may be much more successful if begun early.
The diagnosis is primarily based on clinical findings, including pain, pattern
of joint involvement, joint enlargements, and specific joint deformities. Your
doctor will probably recommend x-rays to identify the extent of the damage and
certain blood tests to rule out other conditions or to help identify the specific
type of arthritis.
Take Dr. Donnica's Decisionnaire™. Check off all the points
that apply to you and take this list with you when you consult your physician.
__ You have joint discomfort or swelling.
__ You have unexplained fatigue.
__ You notice a change in your fine motor skills with your hands.
__ You notice difficulty writing.
__ You have a sudden unexplained limp or difficulty walking.
__ You have repeated bouts of tendonitis.
__ You have visual changes.
Arthritis is the major cause of disability and chronic pain in Americans. 
