Do I Have Arthritis?

Do I Have Arthritis?

Pain is your body’s way of saying, “Something’s not right.” And when that pain settles in your joints—making it hard to move, bend, or even rest—it might be a sign of arthritis.

Arthritis isn’t just one condition. It’s a broad term for over 100 different diseases that affect the joints and sometimes other parts of the body. The most common types include:

• Osteoarthritis – wear-and-tear damage over time

• Rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune condition

• Gout – caused by uric acid crystal buildup

• Psoriatic arthritis – linked to psoriasis

• Lupus-related arthritis – part of a systemic autoimmune disease

What Might You Feel?

While joint pain is the most obvious symptom, arthritis can show up in other ways too. You might notice:

• Swelling, stiffness, or warmth in your joints

• Fatigue or low energy

• Fever or unexplained weight loss

• Skin rashes or itching

• Trouble breathing or chest discomfort (in autoimmune types)

These symptoms can overlap with other illnesses, so it’s important not to self-diagnose. But if joint pain is persistent, especially if it’s affecting your daily life, it’s worth talking to a doctor.

Bottom Line

Yes—joint pain is the hallmark of arthritis, but it’s not the whole story. Some types affect your immune system, skin, lungs, or even your heart. The earlier you get clarity, the better your chances of managing symptoms and protecting your joints.