Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States. In some cases, complications from the condition can even lead to death as was recently the case with Eagles guitarist Glenn Frey.

The famed musician passed away January 18, 2016, from complications arising from rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, and pneumonia.

Chances are good that you know someone who suffers from at least a mild form of the condition. Arthritis is a painful and debilitating disease that often announces itself loudly on a cold, crisp day by generating pain and stiffness in a joint. The afflicted person wakes up and notices that movements that once came effortlessly are now labored, and the morning stiffness means a painful start to the day.

If arthritis settled as a minor problem, most would chalk it up to a matter of aging. But as it progresses, it can infect other joints beyond its initial appearance, and often it has a severe impact on daily tasks and the quality of life.

If arthritis is in a weight-bearing joint, you may not be able to walk, fully sit up straight, or otherwise grip everyday objects. In severe cases, the joints can become twisted and gnarled by the progression of the disease, resulting in a complete inability to do tasks that were once easy.

ARTHRITIS: WHO GETS IT?

There are a number of risk factors which indicate who might acquire arthritis symptoms. While symptoms can arrive gradually or have a sudden onset, here are six factors that could greatly increase your risk of developing arthritis.