Antardhwani - A support Group for Ankylosing Spondylitis and Rheumatoid Arthritis patients.

Juvenile arthritis is a group of inflammatory conditions that can affect children and teenagers, including children as young as one year old. Although arthritis is often associated with older adults, juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis affecting children under 16. Early recognition is important because untreated inflammation can affect a child's joints, eyes, growth, and overall quality of life. What Is Juvenile Arthritis? Juvenile idiopathic arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly causes inflammation in the joints. The condition primarily affects the tissue line in the inside of joints, leading to symptoms such as swelling, pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. According to a recent report on juvenile arthritis in young children , the condition can sometimes begin as early as one year of age. JIA has several subtypes, which are generally classified based on factors such as the number of joints affected and laboratory ...

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that can affect the joints and other body parts . While Rheumatoid arthritis may progress differently from person to person, understanding its four stages can help people recognize changes in their condition and seek timely medical care. Stage 1: Early RA The first stage is characterized by inflammation in the joints. People may experience morning stiffness, joint pain, or mild swelling, often affecting smaller joints such as the hands, feet, or knees. At this stage, X-rays may not show visible joint damage. However, ultrasound or MRI scans may detect inflammation. Blood tests can also help doctors identify antibodies associated with RA, although some people may have normal test results. Early consultation with a rheumatologist is important because starting appropriate treatment early may help reduce the risk of future joint damage. Stage 2: Moderate RA In the second stage, inflammation becomes more noticeable and may begi...

A lot of people think Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) only affects older adults. However, RA can develop at any age, including during the 20s and 30s. It is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and stiffness. Why Can Young Adults Develop Rheumatoid Arthritis? The exact cause of RA is not fully understood. However, there are several factors that  contribute to its development: Genetic factors: A family history of RA or other autoimmune conditions may increase the risk. Immune system changes: An abnormal immune response can cause joint inflammation. Smoking and tobacco use: Smoking is an important risk factor and may also worsen disease progression. Environmental factors: Air pollution and certain infections may contribute to autoimmune responses. Hormonal factors: RA is more common in women, suggesting that hormonal factors may influence the immune system. Lifestyle factors: Being overwei...

India is witnessing a steady rise in chronic diseases such as Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), diabetes , and hypertension . While medical advancements have made these conditions more manageable, health insurance underwriting often continues to treat all chronic diseases as permanent high-risk conditions. A more evidence-based approach can create a fairer and more sustainable insurance system. Why the Current Approach Needs to Change Many insurers continue to classify chronic diseases as pre-existing conditions, leading to: Long waiting periods Coverage exclusions Higher premiums Limited policy options Patients with well-controlled conditions are often assessed the same way as those with active or uncontrolled disease, despite having different health risks. The Growing Need for Reform According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare , more than 8.64 crore people are currently receiving treatment for hypertension and diabetes under the National Programm...

  Quick Answer Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation throughout the body. If you're wondering what is psoriatic arthritis , it is a condition that affects not only the joints and skin but can also impact the nails, eyes, spine, heart, lungs, digestive system, and mental health. Without proper treatment, ongoing inflammation may lead to joint damage, reduced mobility, and other serious health complications. Introduction Many people think psoriatic arthritis only causes joint pain. In reality, it is a systemic inflammatory disease, meaning the inflammation can affect multiple parts of the body—not just the joints. Psoriatic arthritis develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation in the joints, tendons, ligaments, and sometimes internal organs. Around 30% of people with psoriasis eventually develop psoriatic arthritis, although psoriatic arthritis symptoms may sometimes appear before skin change...

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) doesn't stop someone from being a valuable employee. However, chronic joint pain, morning stiffness in spondylitis , spondylitis muscle stiffness , and fatigue can make everyday work more challenging. As inflammatory forms of arthritis disease , RA and AS often require ongoing management, but with the right workplace support, employees can remain productive, engaged, and successful. Why Workplace Inclusion Matters Rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis are often called invisible illnesses because their symptoms aren't always visible. Many employees continue working while quietly managing pain, stiffness, and fatigue, especially during morning hours when symptoms are often at their worst. What Research Says The numbers highlight the impact of inflammatory arthritis in the workplace. One clinical study of employed rheumatoid arthritis patients found an average 14% absenteeism , a 38.4% reduction i...