Arthritis

Arthritis is a group of conditions. It affects your joints, causing pain and swelling. There are several different types of arthritis, and treatment depends on the type.

When to consult a doctor for arthritis?

If the joint pain lasts for days

If you experience stiffness or chronic joint pain that troubles you for more than a few days or if you notice swelling, redness, or warmth around your joints, it is important to seek medical advice and consult a doctor.

If the pain affects your daily routine

If you experience symptoms that interfere with your ability to walk, hold something or perform your daily tasks or have morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes, consult a doctor.

If symptoms worsen or come with other side effects

If multiple joints are inflamed or hurt at the same time or if you have other symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss or fever, you should consult a doctor to understand if your condition has worsened or turned inflammatory.

This guide does not replace professional care. See a doctor to manage acne symptoms. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr Vishnu Gopalan, MBBS, FRACGP, Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer, Hola Health &  Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC. Last updated on 7 Oct 2026

Symptoms of Arthritis

Arthritis can cause the following symptoms:

Joint pain
Swelling
Stiffness
Redness and warmth
Less movement in the join

Causes of Arthritis

Arthritis can develop due to several different causes:

Increasing age
Obesity or being overweight
Some types of arthritis run in families
Joint injuries
Activities involving repetitive movement of a joint

Prevention for Arthritis

Small, consistent changes can help you manage arthritis.

Stay active. Try walking, swimming, or yoga.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Try hot or cold packs for pain.
Consult a physiotherapist about safe exercises.

Management Option for Arthritis

Treatment depends on the type of arthritis you have. It may include:

Physiotherapy
Pain relief medicines (If clinically appropriate)
Anti-inflammatory medicines (If clinically appropriate)
Surgery, in some cases

Note: The content on this page is for general informational purposes only. Hola Health provides online doctor consultations and management where clinically appropriate. Telehealth does not replace in-person care where a physical examination is needed. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get arthritis management through an online doctor consultation in Australia? 

Yes. A telehealth consultation with a doctor allows you to discuss and manage several arthritis symptoms. Telehealth can help with symptom assessment, medication management, referrals, and continuing care planning. Some situations may still need an in-person examination or imaging for a precise diagnosis. 

Can a Hola Health online doctor refer me to an arthritis specialist? 

Yes. If clinically indicated, a Hola Health doctor may refer you to a rheumatologist or another specialist medical practitioner. Referrals are based on your symptoms, medical history, and assessment findings. 