Arthritis is a broad term used to describe several conditions that cause joint inflammation. A joint is the place where two bones meet, so arthritis can affect almost any part of the body, from your spine to your fingers. Surprisingly, the link between gender and arthritis causes men and women to develop these conditions at different rates. Men and women may also experience the same type of arthritis in different ways. Learn more about the impact of gender on arthritis risk factors and treatment options.
Understanding the Gender Differences in Arthritis: Men vs. Women
Due to the link between gender and arthritis, women are more likely to develop osteoarthritis and autoimmune types of arthritis. In contrast, men are more likely to develop gout. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that causes joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Autoimmune disorders occur when a person’s immune system attacks the joints. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Gout is a specific type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.
Why Women Are More Prone to Autoimmune Arthritis
Women are more susceptible to autoimmune disorders due to hormonal differences. Androgen, prolactin and estrogen all have an impact on the immune system and its ability to fight infection. Additionally, a molecule produced by the X chromosome is capable of producing antibodies to other tissues in the body. Men have one X chromosome, but women have two X chromosomes, making them more likely to develop autoimmune types of arthritis.
The Impact of Hormones and Genetics on Women’s Susceptibility to Arthritis
Genetic differences also make women more susceptible to osteoarthritis. For example, women’s tendons move around more than men’s, which may cause premature deterioration. Tendons connect bones to muscles, so any deterioration of a tendon can affect the way a joint moves. Some women also have a genetic mutation affecting the meniscus, a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thighbone and the shinbone. A woman with this genetic variation is more susceptible to developing osteoarthritis of the knee.
Obesity is also more common in women than in men, partially due to hormonal differences between the two sexes. Excess weight increases the risk of osteoarthritis by putting extra stress on the joints.
Women are even more likely to develop osteoarthritis after menopause. The increased risk is due to a decrease in the amount of estrogen in the body. Weight gain after menopause is also common, further increasing the risk of osteoarthritis in women.
Men and Gout: Why Higher Uric Acid Levels Increase Risk
Gout develops when the body deposits uric acid crystals in the joints, causing severe pain and redness in the affected area. These crystals form when the human body breaks down the purines found in red meats, shellfish, beer and other foods. Men tend to consume more alcohol than women, putting them at a higher risk of developing gout.
Arthritis Treatment: Addressing Gender-Specific Needs
Men and women have different risk factors for arthritis, so it’s important to consider gender differences when recommending an appropriate arthritis treatment. For example, women with osteoarthritis report higher pain scores than men do, highlighting the need for effective pain relief.
Due to the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause, women may also need different osteoarthritis treatments at different stages of their lives. Initially, ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications may be effective at relieving pain. After menopause, however, a woman may need more advanced arthritis treatment.
Psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis aren’t reversible, but early treatment may prevent them from getting worse. If over-the-counter pain relievers don’t work, women with these conditions may benefit from corticosteroids, JAK inhibitors, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs or biologics.
Gout often develops due to diet and other lifestyle choices, so men may benefit from meeting with a registered dietitian. Reducing the consumption of beer, red meats, shellfish and other foods high in purines can help reduce the occurrence of gout attacks, leaving men with less pain.
The Role of Genetics and Environment in Arthritis Development by Gender
Gender plays an important role in the development of arthritis, but there are other factors that can increase your risk of osteoarthritis, autoimmune arthritis or gout. For example, exposure to particulate matter has been linked to an increased risk of gout, making it important for both men and women to use personal protective equipment when working in dirty or smoky environments. You may also have an increased risk of osteoarthritis if you’ve spent many years lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive motions at your job.
Arthritis pain can be debilitating, but you don’t have to let it take over your life. Reach out to MAPS Centers for Pain Control for expert guidance and treatment options. Our specialists can help you manage your arthritis symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.