What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

It is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly targets the body's joints, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Over time, it can damage cartilage and lead to joint deformities.

RA typically affects joints symmetrically—both wrists or knees, for example—which differentiates it from other forms of arthritis.

Beyond the joints, RA can sometimes impact other organs, including the lungs, heart, eyes, and blood vessels.

What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Although the exact cause of RA remains unclear, it is thought that both

• Genetic
• Environmental factors

play a role.

Those with a family history of RA have a higher likelihood of developing the disease.

Environmental triggers such as

• Smoking
• Infections
• Obesity

may also prompt the immune system to attack healthy tissues, leading to RA.

Experts suggest that RA arises when genetic susceptibility combines with environmental factors to disrupt normal immune function, leading to chronic inflammation.

What are the Symptoms of RA?

Common RA symptoms include:

• Painful, swollen, and stiff joints, especially in the morning.
• Tenderness in smaller joints (fingers, toes, and wrists).
• Fatigue and low-grade fever.
• Firm lumps (rheumatoid nodules) under the skin, usually around the elbows or hands.

RA can also cause symptoms like

• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Shortness of breath
• Skin rashes when it affects organs.

Symptoms can develop gradually or emerge suddenly and aggressively.

How is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing RA can be tricky since its early symptoms overlap with other conditions.

Diagnosis typically includes:

• Physical Examination: A doctor will check for swollen joints, warmth, and tenderness.
• Blood Tests: Tests may look for rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, and markers of inflammation such as C-reactive protein (CRP) or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
• Imaging: X-rays or other imaging methods assess joint damage.

RA is often suspected if symptoms persist for over six weeks and symmetrically affect joints.

What are the Treatment Options for RA?

While there is no cure for RA, treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and slowing disease progression. Standard treatment approaches include:

• Medications: Drugs to help slow disease progression.
• Pain Management: Pain relievers can assist in alleviating pain and reducing inflammation.
• Lifestyle Changes: Engaging in regular low-impact exercises, such as swimming or walking, can enhance joint function. Additionally, applying hot and cold therapies can help alleviate stiffness and pain.

Surgery: In more serious situations, surgical procedures may be necessary to fix or replace injured joints.

How Can I Manage Life with RA?

Managing RA involves reducing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Here are some tips:

• Exercise: Participate in low-impact exercises such as walking or water aerobics to support joint function.
• Healthy Diet: To reduce inflammation, focus on anti-inflammatory foods such as omega-3-rich fish, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to ease stress and minimize RA symptoms.
• Education: Learn about RA and participate in self-management programs to control the condition and improve your quality of life.

Conclusion

Timely diagnosis and efficient treatment can greatly lessen the severity of rheumatoid arthritis and help maintain a higher quality of life. If you believe you may have RA, consult your doctor for prompt intervention.

For specialized care in rheumatoid arthritis, contact C2 Hospital to arrange a consultation with our experts. We're dedicated to helping you manage RA and improve your overall health.