Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Grating in the joints

The breakdown of the cartilage of the joints causes your bones to rub against each other with little cushioning. This can cause your joints to make pop, creaking, or crackling sounds as your bones grind against each other. You’ll often feel a grating sensation [12] when you move around. The noise usually becomes more noticeable at this time. This condition is called crepitus.

Depression and/or anxiety

Depression (sometimes accompanied by anxiety), is a common complication of chronic diseases, especially when they interfere with normal life. If you have osteoarthritis, your chances of developing depression and anxiety are elevated [13].

Chronic pain and disability caused by osteoarthritis can heighten your stress levels. Stress is a known risk factor for anxiety and depression. Learning to cope with your situation can help reduce the likelihood of developing either condition.

Fever

Osteoarthritis doesn’t typically cause fever. In less common cases, people experience low-grade fevers [14] due to intense inflammation.

Conclusion

Osteoarthritis gets worse with time. The chronic pain and joint stiffness it causes can be quite debilitating and prevent you from carrying out normal daily tasks. The condition cannot be cured, only managed. Recognizing the signs and symptoms can help you know when to get the help you need and prevent complications. Remember that the severity of your pain or symptoms is not always related to the level of damage in your joints. Regular exercise and weight loss are the best ways to delay the onset or progression of this disease. If your symptoms get worse, consult a doctor to discuss treatment options.

References:

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm

[2] https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm

[3] https://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-symptoms

[4] https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis/

[5] https://www.arthritis-health.com/types/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-symptoms-and-signs

[6] https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis-symptoms

[7] https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis-symptoms

[8] https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis/

[9] https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis-symptoms

[10] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925

[11] https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm