[62F] Experiencing joint pain and swelling

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, you might be experiencing one of the following conditions:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in your joints. The symptoms can include pain and swelling in your hands, knees, and feet. It's more common in women and often starts in middle age or later.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the disease. Physical therapy and sometimes surgery can also be helpful.

• Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that often affects the hands, knees, and feet. It's more common in older adults and can cause pain and swelling.

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

• Gout: This is a type of arthritis that usually affects one joint at a time, often the big toe, but it can also affect the hands and knees. It causes intense pain and swelling.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to control pain and reduce uric acid levels.

What you can do

You should definitely see a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and possibly order tests to confirm a diagnosis. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

1. Rest and elevate your swollen joints.
2. Apply a cold pack to the affected areas for 15 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage pain, but they should be used sparingly and only as directed.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Severe pain that doesn't improve with rest or over-the-counter medications.
• A joint that is hot to the touch, red, or very swollen.
• Difficulty moving the joint or inability to move it at all.
• Fever, chills, or other signs of infection.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, diagnosis, and treatment.