Living with arthritis: Under 30 and diagnosed

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition that affects millions of people, and it can be particularly challenging for those who are newly diagnosed. Arthritis can affect people of all ages, including those who are under 25 years old. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, but there are other types such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and gout.

When a young person is diagnosed with arthritis, they often find themselves as the youngest one in the doctor's office. While osteoarthritis is more common among older adults, there are a few conditions that can cause arthritis in young people such as injury, infection, or an autoimmune disorder. For those who are newly diagnosed, it can be difficult to understand the diagnosis and adjust to life with arthritis.

Early onset arthritis

Arthritis is usually considered to be a condition that affects people as they get older, but many people under the age of 30 are newly diagnosed with arthritis every year. Of those, some of the youngest cases are those of Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA). In one study, 25% of the youngest PsA patients were under the age of 20, and the youngest one in the doctor's office was only 8 years old. 

Younger people who have been diagnosed with PsA tend to have more severe symptoms than those who are older. Joint pain, swelling, fatigue, and stiffness are all common complaints among PsA patients. The discomfort and decreased mobility that accompany this condition can lead to physical and emotional difficulties, particularly for young people who are used to being active and participating in activities that now may be off limits due to their arthritis. 

For younger individuals who are newly diagnosed with PsA or any other form of arthritis, it is important to take the time to learn about the condition and understand the symptoms so that it can be managed properly. It is also helpful to find support from others living with arthritis, both online and in person.

Diagnosing arthritis

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to diagnose, particularly for those who are newly diagnosed. When visiting the doctor for an arthritis-related issue, it is important to be aware of all the symptoms that you may be experiencing, as this can help with making an accurate diagnosis. It is not uncommon for those under the age of 25 to be diagnosed with arthritis, which is why it is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the condition. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis and can be difficult to diagnose due to its overlap with other types of arthritis. Those under the age of 25 can experience PsA, making them the youngest ones in the doctor's office with this form of arthritis.

The impact of arthritis

When a person is newly diagnosed with arthritis, particularly at a young age, it can be emotionally difficult to come to terms with the diagnosis. For example, a 25-year-old who is diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) may feel like they are the youngest one in the doctor's office. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

In addition to these emotions, living with arthritis can also affect a person’s daily life, both physically and mentally. For instance, dating can become increasingly difficult as one’s mobility and physical health declines. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can also arise due to the chronic pain, fatigue and joint damage caused by the condition. It is also important to consider the fact that, while medical treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms, many people with arthritis will still need to come to terms with the fact that they may never achieve the level of health they had prior to their diagnosis. This can result in a period of grief for the life that has been lost due to the disease.

Treatment options for arthritis

When newly diagnosed with arthritis, many feel overwhelmed and frustrated, especially those 25 and under. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the U.S., and for those under 30 it can be especially hard to grapple with. Treatment options vary depending on the type of arthritis you have, so it’s important to consult with a medical professional to understand what’s best for you. 

Holistic treatments for arthritis, such as acupuncture and yoga, are becoming increasingly popular and may help with managing pain and inflammation. Before starting any holistic treatment, be sure to discuss it with your doctor to ensure it won’t interfere with any medications or other treatments you’re taking.

Medications are usually the first line of defense when treating arthritis. Common prescriptions used to treat arthritis include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Your doctor will be able to assess which medication is right for you. 

In addition to medications, medical devices like orthotic shoe inserts, braces, and splints can help support joints affected by arthritis and ease discomfort. For people with PsA, a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects the whole body, assistive devices like canes and walkers may help improve mobility. 

If you’ve been newly diagnosed with arthritis, know that you’re not alone. You may feel like the youngest one in the doctor’s office, but there are many resources out there to help you manage your condition. Talk to your doctor about which treatment options are right for you.

Arthritis and self-care

It’s important to remember that arthritis is a chronic condition and as such, you need to take care of yourself first and foremost. As the newly diagnosed 25-year-old with PsA, you may feel like you are the youngest one in the doctor’s office. To that, we offer this quote: “Treat yourself like someone you are responsible for helping” (Anonymous). 

This is a time to focus on yourself, and while there are many treatment options available, it’s also important to prioritize your mental health and well-being. Consider taking up a calming hobby or practice such as yoga or mindfulness. Prioritize adequate rest, exercise, and eating well. Working with a counselor or therapist can also be beneficial for managing stress and anxiety. When it comes to self-care for arthritis, it’s important to take it one day at a time.

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