When it comes to arthritis and diseases like arthritis, did you know there are more than 100 different forms?
But there’s a specific name given to a group of arthritis types in which a person’s immune system attacks itself — that’s called autoimmune arthritis.
The most common type of autoimmune arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, according to Medical News Today, but there are other types of autoimmune arthritis, which include psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, ankylosing spondyloarthritis, axial spondyloarthritism, juvenile arthritis and palindromic rheumatism.
Each of these conditions can cause major discomfort and swelling in the joints.
Some of the general symptoms that are associated with autoimmune arthritis may include fatigue, fever, joint pain, stiffness, swelling and weakness, although the specific symptoms can vary between types of autoimmune arthritis.
Specialist doctors, who are called rheumatologists, can help treat autoimmune arthritis.
Doctors will consider a number of factors when recommending a treatment plan. They may consider a person’s symptoms, the arthritis type and the person’s overall health.
The more you know, the more you might be able to help yourself or a loved one.