Rising levels of PM 2.5 are causing joint and spine pain, with poor lifestyle factors also contributing to the rise in the number of cases.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Joint diseases are no longer just a problem of old age. Arthritis and other related problems are increasingly affecting middle-aged people as well. According to an AIIMS study, rising pollution levels are also a major reason for this. When air pollution levels increase, the pain of rheumatoid arthritis increases. Prolonged exposure to polluted air weakens autoimmune, meaning the body's immune system weakens. In such a situation, the body's cells start damaging themselves. Therefore, when pollution levels increase, there is more pain. 

In addition to the CPCB's report on air pollution, AIIMS conducted a 10-year study of 300 patients. They collected pollution data and analyzed blood samples from all patients. They also recorded the days and times when patients experienced severe pain. When pollution levels were compared with the timing of pain, it became clear that airborne particles also contribute to pain.

The study found that when the level of particulate matter (PM) in the air exceeds 2.5 micrometers, the pain of patients increases. Earlier, a study was also conducted in America in which it was said that people living near the main road are more likely to suffer from arthritis than the general public. Dr. Palash Gupta, Group Chairman of the Department of Orthopedics and Joint Replacement of Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Model Town, says that everyday stress, irregular eating habits, lack of sleep and not giving adequate rest to the body are also increasing these diseases. 

People spend the entire day sitting in the office or in traffic, and then, in a fit of health awareness, suddenly start going to the gym or running for a few weeks, only to give up within a few months. This unbalanced pattern is having an adverse effect on the body and joints. About 25 percent of patients visiting the OPD are new and young people who present with joint problems for the first time. Among these, complaints related to the knees, hips, and spine are the most common.

Common symptoms of arthritis

• mild fever
• Loss of appetite
• feeling more tired
• rapid weight loss
• joint pain, swelling, and stiffness 

This is how protection can be done

• Maintain a healthy weight. 
• Exercise regularly. 
• Eat a balanced diet.
• Reduce pressure on joints. 
• Quit the habit of smoking.
• Take help of yoga and meditation for stress management.
• Seek medical advice if you experience joint pain, swelling, or stiffness. 
• Do not start supplements or exercise without consulting a doctor. 
• Do not wear very tight or pointed shoes.

Bones and joints are becoming weak 

While senior citizens are particularly keen to remain active despite advancing age, joint and spinal problems are also increasingly prevalent among middle-aged individuals between the ages of 40 and 60. According to Dr. Palash Gupta, the causes of arthritis are not solely due to age or genetics, but rather environmental and lifestyle factors. 

The food we eat is often processed and adulterated. Lack of nutrients and neglect of exercise weaken bones and joints. Wearing the wrong shoes, especially pointed or tight footwear, also affects the joints of the feet. Excessive use of mobile phones is also increasing the incidence of thumb and finger joint problems in young patients. However, some types of arthritis can be prevented or delayed by lifestyle modifications.

Read More: Rising levels of PM 2.5 are causing joint and spine pain, with poor lifestyle factors also contributing to the rise in the number of cases.