“Arthritis has commonly spread across the globe, where young adults are more prone to it. The majority of people try to deal with conventional methods, including painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines. Along with temporary relief, these methods also carry a high risk of side effects that can damage the internal organs. For constant relief that helps alleviate arthritis, consider the more holistic approach of Ayurveda. This method not only heals arthritis and its symptoms but also brings the whole body into balance.”

〜Says the experts of Dr. Sharda Ayurveda

Arthritis- An ongoing concern among young adults.

For decades, arthritis has been considered a condition that primarily affects the elderly. But surprisingly, a shift is seen these days, where more young adults, teenagers, and even children are being diagnosed with arthritis. Earlier associated with aging and wear and tear of joints, arthritis now affects millions in their early 40s. The significant cases are on the rise as the survey at Delhi hospitals predicts that every individual out of four suffers from Arthritis under the age of 40.  Not only in India, but the US also records nearly 3,00,000 children and adolescents suffering from Arthritis.

What Is Early-Onset Arthritis?

Early onset of arthritis refers to the condition where symptoms are observed before the age of 40. This can include various forms of arthritis, such as:

• Juvenile Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Psoriatic Arthritis
• Osteoarthritis, etc.

Apart from these common arthritis types, a young individual can develop 80+ other forms of arthritis depending on lifestyle, diet, and other measures. Symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, or decreased range of motion are generally mistaken for sports injuries or growing pains. If it

remains undiagnosed for a longer period of time, it can lead to irreversible joint damage that impacts the quality of life at a very young age. 

What’s behind the Early Onset Arthritis?

In the early 40s, if arthritis symptoms are noticed, it’s a sign to recheck several factors for reversing the condition. Ayurveda believes that lifestyle and dietary patterns are often the underlying causes of chronic diseases. Here are some such factors:

1. Autoimmune Condition or Genetics

Arthritis is considered one of the most common autoimmune conditions that is influenced by the combination of environmental and genetic factors. The wrong functioning of the immune system, attacking its own healthy cells, leads to pain, inflammation, or stiffness in joints.

Only the immune system is not responsible for arthritis; a contribution of genetics is also noted under this. Gene called HLA B27 is responsible for RA risk, where heritability is estimated around 60%.

2. Environmental & Lifestyle Factors

Certain environmental factors, such as smoking, autoimmune-stimulating infections, pollution, or climate conditions, enhance the chances of worsening arthritis symptoms. Along with this, occupations involving heavy lifting or exposure to certain chemicals increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

Many lifestyle habits have triggered the early onset of arthritis, such as an unhealthy diet, obesity, stress, or a sedentary lifestyle. Munching on processed food regularly with no physical activity results in obesity and stress. Also, excessive alcohol consumption has contributed to a high risk of arthritis.

3. Mental Health Factors

Emotional, social, and environmental factors combine to impact the mental status of an individual. On this impact, turning negative, the risk of arthritis symptoms getting worse increases. Some types of stress like:

• Workplace stress
• Financial issues
• Loss of support
• Depression
• Anxiety, etc., are psychosocial stressors that invite the early onset of arthritis.

Why is diagnosis important?

Identifying arthritis at the initial stage helps to manage the disease and slow down its progression. Other health challenges like bone deformity, mental health issues, or reduced motion can also be prevented if treated right at the right time. If the symptoms relate to arthritis at a young age, it can be juvenile arthritis. Hence, proper management and treatment are required to secure a healthy future for the child. Similarly, at any stage, diagnosis and treatment are the most crucial steps.

Early diagnosis is also important to prevent the worsening of symptoms. Pain, stiffness, or swelling in joints might increase or even make an individual bedridden if not timely treated. Therefore, it is advised to get a timely diagnosis with the major tests, like:

• Blood Tests: ESR, CRP, Anti CCP, ANA, or Uric Acid
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scan, MRI, or Ultrasound

Conclusion

While Arthritis is the most painful autoimmune disease, it becomes more disturbing when it happens in the early 40s. At a very young age, an individual not only goes through physical pain but also mental illness regarding the future and daily living. If thinking of treatment, then Ayurveda is the best pathy to overcome this condition. At Dr. Sharda Ayurveda, millions of patients have successfully overcome arthritis (any form) and now live a healthy life. The powerful Ayurvedic medicines, changes in diet, and lifestyle amendments can positively reverse an autoimmune condition. So, if you are also struggling with joint pain, then get it diagnosed and start your Ayurvedic treatment today.