The term “rheumatism” is often used broadly and can be confusing. Rheumatism is an informal term often used by the public to refer to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. It’s not actually a single disease but rather a collective term for a group of conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the musculoskeletal system, primarily the joints and muscles. This means it can encompass various types of arthritis as well as other non-arthritic conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Pain, stiffness, inflammation, warmth, redness, discomfort, and difficulty moving affected joints are common. These symptoms can flare up and subside over time.
You wouldn’t say, “I have rheumatism,” like you would say, “I have the flu.” A doctor would diagnose a specific underlying condition causing your symptoms.
Causes: rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, tendinitis, bursitis, lupus, and various autoimmune or inflammatory conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. These are some examples of conditions that can fall under “rheumatism.” Each has a specific cause and requires an accurate diagnosis for appropriate treatment.
More information about relevant remedies for each can be found by clicking on the condition: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout.
