Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory and autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system doesn’t work properly and attacks the lining of the joints (called the synovium). The inflamed synovium becomes thicker and makes the joint area feel painful and tender, look red and swollen, and moving the joint may be difficult. RA commonly affects the hands, knees, or ankles, and usually the same joint on both sides of the body. However, RA can also cause problems in other parts of the body, including the eyes, heart and circulatory system, and lungs.
If you have symptoms of arthritis or feel that your symptoms are out of control, do not worry. You are not alone, and there are many resources to help you cope with your condition. Ask your loved ones for support or consider joining a support group. Additionally, maintain close communication with your healthcare provider and ensure that you follow a recommended treatment plan to manage your arthritic symptoms so that you can live a long, healthy, and enjoyable life.
WHO recommends a reorientation of health and care systems to promote healthy ageing and address the diverse needs of older persons. In severe cases, it can make the joint unusable and cause long-term pain. If you have joint pain or stiffness that doesn’t go away, make an appointment with your doctor.
Osteoarthritis is one of the significant contributors to years lived with disability among the musculoskeletal conditions. As osteoarthritis is more prevalent in older people (about 70% are older than 55), global prevalence is expected to increase with the ageing of populations. The typical onset is in the late 40s to mid-50s, although osteoarthritis may also affect younger people, including athletes and people who sustain joint injury or trauma. Drug therapy is also the first-line treatment for patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the knees, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. Many individuals wonder about their life expectancy when living with osteoarthritis in the knee.
Your healthcare provider may recommend an osteotomy or bone realignment surgery to reduce pain. A number of studies9, 10, 18, 19 have reported that the survival rate of patients with RA is lower than that of OA patients. Because only OA patients were followed up in the present study, other factors that may have affected the survival rate were evaluated. The factors of advanced age9, 10, 19 and ASA grade19 were also investigated in previous work. Interestingly, the patients who underwent bilateral TKA showed better survival rates than those receiving unilateral treatment as assessed by both the univariate and Cox multivariate analyses. First, the overall survival rates were 0.994 at 1 year, 0.935 at 5 years, 0.821 at 10 years, and 0.666 at 15 years post-TKA.
It is also the most common form of OA and is characterized by high morbidity and disability rates. With the gradual increase in life expectancy and ageing population, KOA not only affects the quality of life of patients, but also poses a burden on global public health. It commonly affects joints subjected to greater loads and higher levels of activity. The knee joint, which is the most complex joint of the human body and bears the greatest load among all joints, is therefore most susceptible to development of OA. KOA lesions may involve articular cartilage, synovium, joint capsule and periarticular muscles, causing irreversible articular damage.
While osteoarthritis itself does not directly affect life expectancy, it can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. The progression of the disease can lead to chronic pain, disability, and reduced physical activity, which in turn can contribute to other health issues.
Most people have frequent pain when moving, walking, or doing other activities that use the joints. Stiffness in the joints may be worse in the morning and after prolonged sitting. Avoiding injury, overuse, and damage to your joints could prevent the progression of OA. Treatment of pre-OA will vary and depends on other health factors. Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes. Overwhelming evidence advices to exercise, control your weight, and rest the joint.
Studies have shown that individuals with severe osteoarthritis in the knee may be at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. These comorbidities can ultimately affect life expectancy if left untreated or not managed properly.
It is essential for individuals with osteoarthritis in the knee to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This plan may include medication, physical therapy, weight management, and lifestyle modifications to help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of other health complications.
Conclusion
While osteoarthritis in the knee itself may not directly impact life expectancy, the associated pain and disability can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and increase the risk of developing other chronic conditions. By seeking proper treatment and making healthy lifestyle choices, individuals with osteoarthritis in the knee can improve their overall well-being and potentially increase their life expectancy.
