Causes of Arthritis Dr Ritesh Khokhar

The cause of arthritis depends on the type of arthritis, but some common causes include:
Aging
Over time, the cartilage cushioning in joints wears down due to natural use.
Obesity
Being overweight can increase the load on joints, which can lead to cartilage breakdown.
Immune system
The body's immune system can attack its own tissues, causing arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and scleroderma.
Uric acid buildup
When the body breaks down purines, it creates uric acid. If the body produces too much uric acid or can't clear it quickly enough, it can build up in the joints and cause gout.
Genetics
Some types of arthritis, like ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis, can be linked to genetics.
Viral infections
Some viral infections, including COVID-19, can trigger viral arthritis.
Repetitive movements
Activities that involve repetitive movements of a joint can cause arthritis.
Previous damage
Previous damage to a joint, such as from an injury, can cause arthritis.

Consult our expert Dr Ritesh Khokhar at Fortis Hospital Mohali