[32F] Experiencing knee joint issues

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possible causes for your symptoms:

• Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that can cause stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity or in the morning, and swelling. It's less common in people your age, but can occur due to injury or overuse.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain relievers, and sometimes surgery.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease that can cause stiffness, especially in the morning, and swelling. It's more common in women and can occur at any age.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to suppress your immune system and reduce inflammation, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.

• Meniscus Tear or ACL Tear: These are injuries that can cause pain, swelling, and a locking sensation in the knee.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain relievers, and sometimes surgery.

• Bursitis: This is inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion your knee joint, and can cause pain and swelling.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, ice, pain relievers, and sometimes corticosteroid injections.

What you can do

You should definitely see a doctor about your symptoms. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Continue to rest and ice your knee. Try to avoid activities that make your symptoms worse.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help with pain and swelling.
3. Gentle exercises or physical therapy can help improve your knee's strength and flexibility.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your pain or swelling becomes severe or unbearable
• If you develop a fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
• If you can't bear weight on your knee or it becomes unstable
• If your symptoms don't improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.