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Arthritis health centre

Arthritis overview

More than 9 million people have arthritis in the UK. There are more than 200 types of arthritis. Common arthritis symptoms of inflammation, pain, and stiffness are usually caused by degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis). Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the UK with an estimated 8.5 million people affected by the condition. Other types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis and gout. No matter which type of arthritis you have, you need an accurate diagnosis before your doctor can recommend treatment.

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Sunlight may lower women’s risk of rheumatoid arthritis

A study has found that women who are exposed to lots of sunlight are less likely to have rheumatoid arthritis than women who live in less sunny areas. Though this is interesting research, we have to be cautious about these findings.

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Arthritis basics

What is arthritis?

There are over 100 types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The word "arthritis" means "joint inflammation". Inflammation is one of the body's natural reactions to disease or injury, and includes swelling, pain and stiffness. Inflammation that lasts for a very long time or recurs, as in arthritis, can lead to tissue damage.

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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) facts

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) facts

Learn how to manage stiffness and swelling from rheumatoid arthritis.

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