Arthritis
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis refers to a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It can affect people of all ages, though it’s more common as we get older.
There are over 100 types of arthritis, but the two most common are osteoarthritis (caused by wear and tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition). While there’s no cure, treatment can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Arthritis
Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but often include:
Joint pain or tenderness
Stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
Swelling or warmth around the joints
Limited range of motion
Fatigue (especially with inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis)
Symptoms may be constant or come and go in flare-ups. If left untreated, arthritis can worsen over time and impact daily functioning.
What Causes Arthritis?
Different types of arthritis have different causes:
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common type and results from gradual wear and tear of the joints. Risk factors include age, joint injury, obesity, and family history.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and joint damage over time.
Other types of arthritis include psoriatic arthritis, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Treatment Options for Arthritis
While arthritis can’t be cured, treatment can help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. The goal is to minimise pain and allow you to stay active.
Medication for Arthritis
Medications can be used to relieve symptoms and slow the progression of inflammatory arthritis. At [Pharmacy Name], treatment options may include:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – such as ibuprofen, to reduce inflammation and pain
Corticosteroids – sometimes prescribed short-term to reduce severe inflammation
Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) – for autoimmune types like rheumatoid arthritis (not always available in pharmacy settings)
Topical treatments – such as anti-inflammatory gels applied directly to the joints
Medications are prescribed based on your symptoms, medical history, and the type of arthritis you have. A consultation is required before treatment is offered.
Lifestyle Management
Alongside medication, the following steps can also help ease symptoms:
Low-impact exercise (e.g. swimming, walking, stretching)
Physiotherapy or joint support devices
Maintaining a healthy weight
Using heat or cold packs
Joint-friendly diet rich in anti-inflammatory food
How We Can Help
We offer safe and discreet access to arthritis treatment through our online consultation service. You can get personalised advice and, where appropriate, access prescription treatments to help manage your symptoms.
Our service includes:
Quick online consultation reviewed by licensed prescribers
Prescription treatments (where suitable)
Discreet UK delivery to your home
Professional advice on symptom management
Our goal is to support your joint health and help you stay mobile and comfortable.
Start Your Online Arthritis Consultation
If joint pain, stiffness, or inflammation is affecting your daily life, professional support is available.
At MedsDoctor, we offer treatment options for arthritis symptoms, including access to medications that may reduce pain and improve joint mobility. After completing an online consultation, a licensed prescriber will review your assessment and, if suitable, provide discreet UK delivery.
Simply submit an online assessment to start your consultation.
Arthritis FAQs
Can I treat arthritis at home?
Lifestyle changes and over-the-counter pain relief may help, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Are arthritis medications safe long-term?
Some treatments, like NSAIDs, are safe for short-term use. Long-term management plans should be reviewed regularly by a clinician.
Which type of arthritis do I have?
Only a healthcare professional can diagnose the type of arthritis through clinical assessment, and sometimes blood tests or imaging.