What You Should Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Disease Illness.
What You Need to Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis
Overview
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the joints. This inflammatory condition leads to pain, joint damage, and reduced mobility. Additionally, RA can affect other parts of the body, including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and muscles.
Symptoms and Progression
RA distinguishes itself from other arthritis types by causing inflammation and swelling in multiple joints simultaneously, a condition known as polyarthritis. Initially, joints may be affected asymmetrically but become symmetric as the disease progresses. Typically, RA pain decreases with joint use, but a hallmark symptom is morning stiffness lasting over an hour. This contrasts with osteoarthritis, where pain worsens throughout the day.
As RA advances, inflammation can erode joint surfaces, impair movement, and cause deformities. Common deformities include the Boutonniere and swan neck deformities, while fingers may deviate unnaturally. The thumb could develop a "Z-Thumb" deformity, giving the hand a squared appearance.
Who Is Affected?
RA most frequently begins between ages 20-40, but it can emerge at any age. It is linked to the HLA marker DR4, making family history a significant risk factor. Women are three times more likely to develop RA than men, and smokers are four times more at risk than non-smokers.
Causes
The exact cause of RA remains unknown, though infections, food allergies, or external organisms have been considered potential triggers. While pathogens like Mycoplasma and viruses such as Epstein-Barr have been suspected, no clear links have been established in studies.
Treatment Options
Pharmacological treatments for RA fall into three main categories:
1. Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): These drugs, such as Humira, Remicade, and Enbrel, can induce remissions and slow disease progression.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Agents: Glucocorticoids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used.
3. Analgesics: Medications like Acetaminophen, Opiates, and Lidocaine help alleviate pain.
Additional therapies include weight management, occupational and physical therapy, joint injections, and special tools for easier movement. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary. For many, lifestyle and dietary changes can provide relief alongside medical interventions.
Alternative Perspectives
Some natural health practitioners believe RA is linked to toxemia?"an accumulation of toxins from food, air, and skin exposure.
Disease Course
RA varies widely among individuals. Some experience mild, short-term symptoms, whereas others face a lifelong, progressive condition.
Disclaimer
This information is not medical advice. Consult your doctor for more details about Rheumatoid Arthritis.
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