Common types of arthritis in young adults
Contrary to popular belief, arthritis is not solely a condition of old age. The arthritis umbrella includes over 100 conditions that can impact people at any point in their lives. In young adults, including those who are 18, certain types of arthritis are more prevalent. It is crucial to understand these distinctions to identify the right course of action.
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
JIA is an umbrella term for arthritis conditions affecting children under 16, but symptoms can easily persist into or begin in young adulthood. There are multiple subtypes, with the most common causing joint pain and swelling in the knees, hands, ankles, elbows, and wrists. While some cases of JIA may go into remission, others continue to cause issues for young adults. Some studies show that as many as 46% of those with juvenile arthritis still have active arthritis years later.
Young-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis (YORA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own joint lining. While RA typically appears in middle age, it can occur in young adulthood, sometimes called Young-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis (YORA). For young adults with RA, the disease can sometimes be more severe, potentially causing bone erosion if not aggressively treated early on.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis (OA) is often described as "wear-and-tear" arthritis, but it can also affect young adults. This happens when cartilage, the cushioning tissue in joints, wears down over time. In younger people, this process can be accelerated by a history of joint injuries from sports, a sedentary lifestyle, or obesity. For instance, a previous ligament tear could cause microscopic cartilage damage that eventually leads to OA within 10 to 15 years.
Other forms of arthritis
Other types of inflammatory arthritis can also affect young adults, such as ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and reactive arthritis. Conditions like lupus can also trigger arthritic symptoms in young adults. It is important for a young person experiencing joint pain to seek a professional diagnosis to differentiate between these conditions.
Comparison of arthritis types in young adults
| Feature | Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) | Young-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis (YORA) | Early-Onset Osteoarthritis (OA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cause | Autoimmune or autoinflammatory disorder; exact cause unknown. | Autoimmune disorder; immune system attacks joint lining. | Cartilage breakdown due to injury, overuse, or obesity. |
| Common Age of Onset | Typically under 16, but often continues into adulthood. | Between 16 and 40 years old. | Can happen in 20s or 30s due to specific risk factors. |
| Symptom Pattern | Pain, swelling, stiffness that can come and go in various joints. | Symmetrical joint pain (both sides of the body), morning stiffness, fatigue. | Pain during or after activity, stiffness after rest, grating sounds. |
| Initial Joints Affected | Knees, ankles, wrists, hands, elbows. | Small joints of hands and feet, or larger joints like knees. | Hips, knees, spine, hands. |
| Systemic Symptoms | Possible fever, rash, and eye problems depending on subtype. | Can affect other organs, cause fatigue, and fever. | No systemic symptoms; focused on affected joints. |
How arthritis is diagnosed in young people
Receiving an accurate diagnosis is the first and most critical step for an 18-year-old with potential arthritis symptoms. Because joint pain can be easily dismissed as sports injuries or “growing pains,” it is important to be persistent with healthcare providers. A diagnostic process typically involves:
- Medical History: A doctor will review personal and family medical history, including any previous injuries or health conditions.
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will check joints for swelling, warmth, tenderness, and range of motion.
- Blood Tests: These are often used to rule out other conditions and check for specific markers, such as the rheumatoid factor, which can indicate an autoimmune issue like RA.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to visualize joint damage and assess the condition of cartilage and soft tissues.
Managing and living with arthritis at 18
Receiving an arthritis diagnosis at a young age can be overwhelming, but effective management can help minimize its impact. With the right treatment plan, many young adults live full and active lives. A treatment plan is often multi-pronged, combining medication, lifestyle changes, and physical therapies.
- Medication: Depending on the type of arthritis, medications can include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and inflammation, or more potent options like disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics for autoimmune arthritis.
- Physical and Occupational Therapy: These therapies can help improve joint function, increase range of motion, and strengthen muscles that support the joints.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on joints, and incorporating low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can keep joints flexible. A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s, leafy greens, and nuts can also help. Taking regular breaks from sedentary activities is also beneficial.
- Mental Health Support: The emotional toll of a chronic illness can be significant. Support groups or counseling can provide a space to process emotions and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Conclusion
Yes, an 18-year-old can develop arthritis. This is not just a concern for the elderly, but a reality for many young people facing conditions like Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, Young-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis, and early-onset Osteoarthritis. While symptoms like persistent joint pain, stiffness, and swelling can overlap with other issues, it is essential not to dismiss them based on age. Seeking early and accurate diagnosis is key to effective management, which typically involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, and healthy lifestyle choices. Empowering young adults with knowledge and resources can significantly improve their long-term joint health and overall quality of life.
