Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis, the most common autoimmune disease, occurs when the body immune system mistakenly attacks the joints. It typically affects the small joints of your hands and feet. Autoimmune disease occurs when person’s immune system which generally protects the body from foreign invaders mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy tissues for foreign object. The feet, hands, wrist, ankles, shoulder and elbow joints are most commonly affected by the autoimmune disorder. When left untreated, inflammation can start to develop in other parts of the body.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is characterized by chronic joint inflammation. The joint is held in place by a soft tissue lining called synovium, which contains thick fluid that lubricates and nourishes joint tissues. In RA, the immune system attacks the synovial membrane, resulting in swelling, stiffness and pain in and around the joints. In severe cases, it may also affect the Bone, Cartilage, and other tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease, which means it affects the whole body. It primarily affects the joints but may also affect eyes, lungs, heart, kidneys, nerve and muscles, blood and blood vessels. Onset of the disease is usually middle age and women are three time likely to get Rheumatoid Arthritis than men. It usually attacks the joints in hands, wrist and knees. The number of joints involved is highly variable and is typically affected in a symmetrical pattern which means if one knee is affected the other knee also is affected.
What is Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, also known as Pediatric Rheumatic Disease, is a form of arthritis which occurs in children aged 16 years or younger.
Cause
It’s not clear what actually triggers this problem with immune system. But researchers believe that Environmental and Genetic factor may contribute to the onset of the disease.
Symptoms
Sign and symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis mimic those of many other diseases. The symptoms develop gradually. Some of the symptoms are:
- Fatigue
- Pain in more than one joint.
- Stiffness
- Swelling and redness
- Symmetrical joint involvement
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Symptoms associated with Sjogren syndrome like Dry eyes, Dry mouth
How is RA diagnosed?
Since symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis mimic other conditions and diseases, RA can often be overlooked or misdiagnosed. It can be diagnosed with laboratory and radiographic test.
Treatment
There is no cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis. However, early diagnosis and treatment greatly improves the prognosis and gives long term result. The treatment involves medications, surgery, and daily lifestyle changes.
Medications: It is treated with medication which includes— Disease modifying anti rheumatic drug (DMARDs), NSAIDs and Corticosteroids. Immunosuppressant may also be prescribed. Treatment should be started as soon as possible to minimize permanent joint damage.
DMARDs slow the progression of disease and help to prevent severe joint damage. Methotrexate is the first-line drug (DMARDs) for Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Exercise: Proper diet and exercise helps to maintain healthy lifestyle. Some vegetables and fruits are rich in antioxidants that may also help to control and reduce inflammation. Exercise may include Aerobics, Yoga, and Pilates.
Surgery: In some cases, treatment may involve surgery. When medication doesn’t work, surgery is the only option.
DISCLAIMER
This web page provides general information and discussions about health, medicine and related subjects. The information and other content provided on this website, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.
The content is for information purpose only and is not a medical advice. Qualified doctors have gathered information from reputable sources; however Credence Medicure Corporation is not responsible for errors or omissions in reporting or explanations. No individual should use the information, resources and tools contained herein to self diagnose or self treat any medical condition.
If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your health care provider or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
The opinions and views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, health practice or other institution. Credence Medicure Corporation gives no assurance or warranty regarding the accuracy, timeliness or applicability of the content.