The term arthritis literally means joint inflammation, but it also is used to refer to more than 100 rheumatic diseases. These diseases can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in joints and may also affect other parts of the body. Some common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, gout, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis.

How many Amercians suffer from chronic symptoms of arthritis?

40 million!

Are there several forms of arthritis?

Yes, there are more than one hundred forms of arthritis and the causes of many are unclear. The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis (commonly referred to as simply arthritis) and rheumatoid arthritis. Gout is a less common form of the disease.

When does arthritis appear?

Rheumatoid arthritis -- one of the many forms of arthritis -- typically begins at 20 to 50 years of age, although it can develop in childhood.

Mario Dorizas Does arthritis affect more women than men?

Rhemathoid arthritis is two to three times more common in women than men. Men, however, are at greater risk than women of developing gout.

What kind of cause can trigger arthritis?

While genes appear to be a contributing factor to arthritis, there are other causes. Researchers believe that environmental agents -- a virus, or even stress, can trigger the disease in people who are genetically predisposed to it.