How Rheumatoid Arthritis
How Rheumatoid Arthritis Affects the Body
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints, including the small joints of the hands, feet, and wrists. It can also affect the larger joints, such as the knees, hips, and shoulders.
RA is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In the case of RA, the immune system attacks the synovium, which is the lining of the joints. This inflammation can cause the synovium to thicken and produce fluid, which can lead to joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
RA can also affect other parts of the body, including the skin, eyes, lungs, and heart.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The most common symptoms of RA include:
* Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
* Fatigue
* Weight loss
* Fever
* Loss of appetite
* Anemia
* Skin rashes
* Eye inflammation
* Lung problems
* Heart problems
Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis
RA is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms, a physical examination, and blood tests. Blood tests can measure for the presence of certain antibodies that are associated with RA. X-rays may also be used to assess the damage to the joints.
Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis
There is no cure for RA, but there are treatments that can help to relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Treatment options include:
* Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
* Physical therapy
* Occupational therapy
* Surgery
Outlook for Rheumatoid Arthritis
The outlook for people with RA has improved significantly in recent years, thanks to advances in treatment. Most people with RA are able to live full and active lives.
Prevention of Rheumatoid Arthritis
There is no known way to prevent RA. However, there are certain factors that can increase the risk of developing the disease, such as:
* Family history of RA
* Female sex
* Smoking
* Obesity
If you have any of these risk factors, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of developing RA.