Arthritis quiz

How much do you know about arthritis? Try taking the following true- or-false quiz. You may be surprised at how much you already know.

#1. There is only one kind of arthritis.

False. Several types of arthritis affect the joints and connective tissues of the body. The most common form is osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease of the joints that occurs with aging. The pain and swelling are usually worse in the morning. Another common type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis. It is a progressive, crippling joint disorder that most often affects women between ages 20 and 50. It can also result in deformity and disability of the joints.

#2. Only adults get arthritis.

False. Arthritis affects 1 out of 1000 children. Arthritis in children is similar to arthritis in adults. It can start anytime after birth. Arthritis may affect one or many joints and any size joint. The outlook for juvenile arthritis is often better than that for an adult with arthritis. Many children recover completely.

#3. All medicines for arthritis cause serious side effects.

False. While many medications for arthritis can have serious complications, the majority of people do well on anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. These are great medicines for many people with different types of arthritis, because they reduce inflammation. Many newer medications are effective in reducing not only pain and swelling, but also the permanent joint changes that can accompany rheumatoid arthritis.

#4. Persons with arthritis should not exercise.

False. Moderate exercise, with the approval of your healthcare provider, promotes flexibility. Water exercise performed in warm water is well tolerated. It is especially important to maintain joint function if you have arthritis.

#5. Arthritis affects only your joints.

This is false. Many other parts of your body can be affected by arthritis, including your kidneys, lungs, heart, eyes, and skin. If you have more questions about arthritis, ask your healthcare provider for more information.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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