Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common type of autoimmune arthritis and affects 1% of the world population. RA is characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling of the joints, especially the small joints in the hands and feet. It can also affect organs such as the lungs, eyes, or skin. Left untreated, joints can suffer permanent damage, sometimes necessitating replacement. (Check out our blog: “What is Arthritis: Types, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment“)
The cause of RA is not known. It is an autoimmune disease that triggers the immune system to mistakenly direct inflammation to healthy joints. Several factors which play role in the development of RA include age, race, sex, genetic factors:
The small joints of the hands and feet are most susceptible. Symptoms include:
May be accompanied by:
RA can affect other organs of the body besides joints in approximately half of the patients. Patients may also suffer side effects from drugs used to treat RA.
Due to its chronic nature, a diagnosis of RA is usually not considered until the symptoms have been present for at least 3 months. No single test can confirm the presence of RA. Instead, a combination of the following can help confirm a diagnosis:
The common blood tests done in suspected RA include blood count to check for anemia, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), Rheumatoid Factor, anti-CCP antibodies.
Treatment is focused on easing joint pain and swelling, as there is no cure for RA. Lasting or permanent damage can best be prevented by starting medication as soon as possible. Unfortunately, not all patients respond to the same medications, and many must change their treatment plans at least once during their lifetimes.
Treatment typically consists of:
Patients receiving proper treatment can expect to lead relatively normal and active lives. When somebody has joint pain and stiffness for more than a few days they should seek care from a Rheumatologist.
This post was last modified on January 20, 2023 9:55 am
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