That may be because, as the Arthritis Foundation recently found in a survey of arthritis sufferers, they mistakenly believe there is little that can be done to help their disease and improve their quality of life. The cause of most forms of arthritis isn't known. It's believed that many are a result of a combination of factors. And doctors think that RA may be an inherited disease that is triggered by a virus, bacteria, use of a medication, or excessive stress. Likewise, they believe that ankylosing spondylitis and SLE run in families.
Physicians have a better handle on gout, which is caused by rising levels of uric acid in the blood.
This occurs as a result of a metabolic disorder. Gout runs in families, and is seen more commonly in those who are overweight, drink alcohol, have higher blood pressure, or are taking certain medications. The ends of the bones are padded with a protective coating called cartilage. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, occurs when that protective coating wears away, usually as one ages, and the two bones begin to rub against one another. Arthritis is the number one cause of disability in the United States, according to the Arthritis Foundation, and limits the ability of 7 million Americans to dress themselves, walk, climb stairs, or get in and out of bed.