The word arthritis may call to mind images of wrinkled hands, or an older adult rubbing his aching joints. But it’s a myth that arthritis is a health condition that only affects older people. In fact, there are different types of arthritis, and many of them can impact a person at any age.

Here’s what you should know about arthritis.

It’s the most common cause of disability for U.S. adults. Around 24 million adults are limited in their everyday activities because of arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Complicating the situation, the CDC adds that people with disabilities may be more likely to endure other health conditions, such as depression, pain and obesity.

There are more than 100 types of arthritis. Broadly speaking, the word arthritis refers to health conditions impacting the joints, the tissue around the joints and other connective tissues.

Some of the more common types of arthritis include:

  • Osteoarthritis. This happens when there’s wear and tear to the cartilage that cushions bones and joints, causing bones to rub together. According to the Cleveland Clinic, osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and nearly half of adults may one day develop it.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis. With this autoimmune condition, the body’ immune system attacks its own tissue, causing inflammation in the joints and potentially damaging other parts of the body.
  • Psoriatic arthritis. This autoimmune condition can cause stiffness, pain and swelling in the joints and in the places tendons and ligaments connect bones. About one in three people with psoriasis also have psoriatic arthritis.
  • Gout. This inflammatory arthritis can cause sudden bouts of joint pain, often starting in the big toe. Attacks of gout usually last a day or two and then go away. Changes in lifestyle can often help prevent future attacks.
  • Childhood arthritis. Also known as juvenile arthritis, this condition causes the immune system to become overactive in individuals 18 and under, and results in swelling in the joints and body. It can make it challenging for a child to walk or even play and can cause disability at a young age.

Arthritis impacts one in five adults in the U.S. In addition, around 220,000 children and adolescents have been diagnosed with arthritis.

Anyone can get arthritis. There are certain types of arthritis you can’t prevent. But there are steps you can take for other types that may reduce your risk. Those include:

  • Maintain a healthy body weight. People with obesity are more prone to osteoarthritis in their knees, according to the CDC.
  • Quit smoking. Health experts say that smoking tobacco can up your risk for rheumatoid arthritis. For those who already have arthritis, smoking can make it worse.
  • Talk to your doctor about an exercise plan that’s right for you. Working out is helpful for many people with arthritis, because it may reduce joint pain.
  • Make healthy food choices. With gout, eating certain foods may raise your risk for a flare-up. According to the Mayo Clinic, people with gout should avoid or minimize the following:
    • Organ and glandular meat
    • Red meat
    • Most seafood
    • Alcohol
    • Sugar (especially high-fructose corn syrup)

Regular check-ups are important to your health. Seeing your doctor routinely allows them to get to know you and ask about any changes you’ve experienced in how you feel and function. It’s also a chance for you to talk to them about any pain, stiffness, swelling or concerns you might have. If you’re worried you may have arthritis, talk to your doctor about it. They can answer your questions and, if needed, guide you through the next steps.