Arthritis is a common name for inflammatory joint diseases. The disease is widespread, and with time the incidence rate is increasing.

Causes of Arthritis

The causes of arthritis can be very different. Most often, the main reasons are infectious processes, allergic reactions, disorders in the work of the immune system, or mental traumas. One of the causes of arthritis is the natural wear of the joints.

The provoking factors in the development of arthritis may be poor environmental conditions, unbalanced diet, sedentary lifestyle, excess weight, and genetic predisposition. Some types of arthritis develop due to years of pressure on the same groups of muscles and joints of the musculoskeletal system.

The main causes of arthritis include:

• Infectious diseases. When bacteria, viruses, and fungi enter the body, a natural defense reaction is triggered. However, failures in the work of immunity lead to the fact that immune cells destroy not only pathogenic microorganisms but also damage own cells, in particular, the cells of the joints.
• Injuries of the joints, which lead to the development of a chronic inflammatory process in the joint.
• Excess body weight when there is too much load on the joints.
• Congenital joint injuries (for example, congenital dislocation of the hip).
• Disorders of the endocrine system. In particular, the development of arthritis is promoted by hormonal disorders during menopause in women.
• Hereditary predisposition.
• Some diseases such as tuberculosis, dysentery, gonorrhea, gout, and others.
• Excessive use of alcoholic beverages.
• The effect of biological poisons of insects.
• Inadequate intake of nutrients.

Symptoms of Arthritis

The symptomatology of arthritis is very similar. Patients feel pain and stiffness in the affected joint. There may be a swelling in the area of the affected joint, a restriction of its movement, and a local increase in temperature.

In some cases, arthritis is accompanied by changes in clinical and laboratory indicators:

• Fever
• Weakness
• Elevated levels of ESR
• Leukocytosis

Sex and Arthritis

Diseases of the joints bring a lot of discomfort to the patients, one of which is the restriction or absence of sex life. Some people suffering from chronic pain voluntarily refuse intimate relationships because they do not feel attracted to a partner. Others are embarrassed of their body, thinking that it is not sexy. All this leads to both psychological and physiological problems. However, many rheumatologists believe that arthritis is not an obstacle to an active sex life.

Sex Helps Relieve Pain in Arthritis

During sexual excitement, special substances (endorphins, also called hormones of joy or hormones of pleasure) are released into the blood. It has been proven that endorphins have an analgesic effect, so sex is useful for arthritis. Another thing is that you should choose the most comfortable position. Of course, all this is possible when a couple has a trusting relationship. Therefore, doctors recommend not to be silent but to speak frankly and discuss with the partner the current situation without embarrassment. Loving people will understand each other and find the best solution.

Tips to Maintain Sex Life with Arthritis

#1 Convince yourself that you are sexually attractive. Wrinkles on the abdomen or excess fat on the hips do not repel the vast majority of people from sex. So, why should then the deformed joints be an obstacle for sex? If you still feel awkward, then you need to take care of a suitable entourage – dim the light, use aromatic oils, light candles, turn on a relaxing music, i.e. create a romantic atmosphere.

#2 Relaxation. This is very important because it helps prepare the body, namely the joints and ligaments. To relax, you can ask your partner to lightly massage your body or take a warm bath.

#3 Touches. Gentle touches contribute to the release of endorphins into the blood, as well as other enzymes and proteins that help alleviate pain.

#4 Find a comfortable position. Choose a convenient position, in which both of you can get sexual satisfaction.

These recommendations are very useful not only for patients with arthritis but also for their loved ones. Sometimes, to make a family life better, you need an effort from a partner who is not sick. He or she can more adequately assess the situation and take steps to deal with it because people suffering from chronic diseases often become self-absorbed and do not even look for ways to solve their problems.