leddigt

Leddgikt is a Swedish word that translates to arthritis in English. It refers to a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are many different types of leddgikt, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage cushioning the joints wears away over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining.

Symptoms of leddgikt can vary depending on the type and severity but often include joint pain that may worsen with activity, stiffness especially in the morning, swelling, redness, and a reduced range of motion. Fatigue is also a common symptom. While leddgikt can affect people of all ages, it is more prevalent in older adults. Risk factors for osteoarthritis include age, genetics, obesity, and joint injury. For rheumatoid arthritis, genetic predisposition and environmental factors are thought to play a role.

Diagnosis of leddgikt typically involves a physical examination, medical history, blood tests, and imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs. Treatment aims to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and preserve joint function. This can include medications such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Physical therapy, occupational therapy, lifestyle modifications like exercise and weight management, and in some cases, surgery are also important components of treatment.