What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Waking up with stiff joints? 

Feeling unexplained fatigue? 

It’s not just aging; it might be Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). 

This condition affects numerous people, making daily life a challenge. In this blog, you will learn more about 

  • What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)? 
  • What are Rheumatoid Arthritis signs?
  • Why does Rheumatoid Arthritis occur?
  • How is life with Rheumatoid Arthritis?
  • What are the treatment options?

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) ?

Rheumatoid Arthritis isn’t just about aching joints. It’s an autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues, primarily affecting the joints and leading to pain, swelling, and potential deformities.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms 

RA is widely recognized for its impact on the joints, but it offers a wider array of symptoms:

  • Joint Pain & Swelling: Often starts in small joints of the hands and feet.
  • Fatigue: Not just tiredness, but a profound sense of exhaustion.
  • Morning Stiffness: Lasting for hours, making daily tasks challenging.
  • Systemic Signs: Including low-grade fever, dry eyes/mouth, jaw pain, rashes, and nodules on elbows.
  • Affected Joints Include Wrists, elbows, shoulders, cervical spine, hips, knees, and ankles.

Why Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Occur?

RA is not a disease that is inherited, and the current belief is that it is caused by a combination of factors, from viruses to environmental and hormonal changes.

  • Genetics: Certain genes can heighten risk. If you have a first-degree relative with RA, then your chances of developing the disease are two times higher.
  • Environment: Exposure to agents like smoking or silica dust.
  • Hormonal Factors: RA is more common in women.

Life with Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA is a lifelong journey. And while it may not be curable, it is manageable with the right care and strategies. Here at Rheumatologist OnCall we focus on treating patients with RA from the diagnosis to the worst flare-up episodes. What are flare-ups?

  • Flare-Ups:  These are periods of heightened disease activity. Sometimes flare-ups develop due to high stress, due to lack of sleep, or due to eating certain foods. Learn more about managing flare-ups from Dr. Girnita’s  YouTube video.
  • Remission: Times of reduced symptoms, often due to effective medication.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment 

Rheumatoid Arthritis

 

Fortunately, in our days, there are many options to treat RA. The best way of treating RA will be a combination of medications, supplements, and lifestyle modifications that are scientifically proven to work best for RA patients. This is our approach at Rheumatologist OnCall. We treat the patient and not their disease, as we believe every patient with RA is unique.

  • Medications: Including anti-inflammatories, DMARDs, and biologics.
  • Physical Therapy: Vital for retaining and enhancing mobility.
  • Surgery: In advanced stages, joint replacement can be a consideration.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Complications

RA affects more than just the joints:

Conclusion

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) needs a comprehensive understanding,  an empathetic approach and effective management.  For those battling RA, know you’re not alone. With experts like Dr. Girnita and the Rheumatologist OnCall team, a fulfilling life with RA is more than possible—it’s a promise. 

 

Disclaimer

All content shared on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This site and its services do not constitute the practice of medicine. You should always talk to your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment regarding your specific medical needs. We don’t represent that any of the products or services offered through this site are safe, appropriate, or effective for you. We advise you to always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider regarding personal health or medical conditions. If you know or suspect you have a medical problem, contact a qualified healthcare professional immediately. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

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