Arthritis is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide, directly affecting the human musculoskeletal system. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hundreds of millions of people suffer from various forms of arthritis, particularly among the elderly. Although it does not cause immediate death like cardiovascular diseases or cancer, arthritis can result in severe long-term complications if not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. The consequences go far beyond joint damage, impacting the entire body, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Serious consequences of untreated arthritis:
1. Joint destruction and permanent deformity
One of the most visible and common outcomes of prolonged arthritis is the destruction of joint structures. Chronic inflammation damages the cartilage, erodes the bone beneath the joint, and leads to degenerative changes. If left untreated, joint mobility becomes limited, resulting in stiffness and deformities such as misaligned fingers, toes, knees, or hips.
These deformities are often irreversible without surgical intervention, and patients may require joint replacement surgery or orthopedic correction. Unfortunately, many patients only seek medical help when the damage has become too severe for non-invasive treatment to be effective.
2. Disability and loss of mobility
As joints become severely damaged, daily activities such as walking, grasping, dressing, or personal hygiene become difficult. In advanced stages, patients may become entirely dependent on others or require a wheelchair, significantly reducing their independence and ability to work.
In developed countries, arthritis is a leading cause of disability among adults. In Vietnam and other developing nations, the number of arthritis-related disabilities is also rising, especially as populations are aging rapidly.
3. Damage to other organs
Few people realize that arthritis particularly rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple organ systems. As an autoimmune disease, it may cause inflammation in the heart, lungs, eyes, blood vessels, and skin.
Including:
- Heart: Pericarditis, heart failure, increased risk of coronary artery disease.
- Lungs: Pleuritis, pulmonary fibrosis, shortness of breath.
- Eyes: Dry eyes, uveitis, impaired vision.
- Skin: Rheumatoid nodules, rashes, skin ulcers.
When such extra-articular complications occur, treatment becomes much more complex and may even be life-threatening.
4. Chronic pain and sleep disturbances
Arthritis causes prolonged joint pain, especially at night or during weather changes. The persistent pain affects daytime activities and leads to insomnia, fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration. If left untreated, chronic pain can significantly deteriorate a person’s quality of life.
5. Psychological disorders and depression
Restricted mobility, chronic pain, and dependence on others can lead to anxiety, stress, and depression. This is especially common in elderly patients who live alone or lack sufficient emotional support.
Studies have shown that the rate of depression in people with rheumatoid arthritis is more than double that of the general population. This creates a vicious cycle, where physical pain and mental suffering reinforce each other, complicating treatment.
6. Complications from improper treatment
Many patients self-medicate with over-the-counter painkillers or unverified traditional remedies. Prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver or kidney damage, and high blood pressure. Long-term use of corticosteroids without medical supervision may lead to osteoporosis, diabetes, and increased risk of infections.
Improper treatment not only fails to control the disease but also adds new health risks and financial burdens.
7. Shortened life expectancy and reduced quality of life
Untreated arthritis can ultimately shorten life expectancy. Reduced physical activity, weakened immunity, and damage to vital organs such as the heart and lungs increase the risk of premature death. Moreover, the patient’s quality of life deteriorates significantly physically, emotionally, and socially.
In summary, although arthritis is a chronic condition, it can be effectively managed if diagnosed and treated early. However, if neglected or improperly managed, the disease can lead to a cascade of severe consequences, including joint deformity, disability, organ damage, and reduced life expectancy. Therefore, raising awareness about the disease, undergoing regular health check-ups, and adhering to appropriate treatment plans are essential to protecting joint health and improving long-term quality of life.
