What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune illness that causes joint pain as well as damage throughout the body. The joint deterioration caused by RA usually affects both sides of the body. As a result, if a joint in one of your arms or legs is damaged, the same joint in the other arm or leg is likely to be influenced as well. Treatments work best when RA is detected early, so learning the symptoms is critical.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The jsymptoms of RA:

• Joint discomfort
• Swelling of the joints
• Rigidity of the joints
• Deformities and loss of joint function

The severity of the symptoms might range from minor to severe. Knowing the early signs of RA will help you and your healthcare practitioner treat and manage it more effectively.

Rheumatoid arthritis treatment

Although there is no cure for RA, there are medications that can help you manage your symptoms. Recent advancements in treatment methods have resulted in positive results and and increased quality of life.

Treatments for RA assist to regulate the inflammatory response and manage pain, which can lead to remission in many patients. Inflammation can be reduced to help avoid further joint and organ damage.

Treatment options include:

• Medications
• Alternative or home remedies
• Dietary changes
• Specific types of exercise

Home treatments for rheumatoid arthritis

When living with RA, certain home remedies and lifestyle changes may assist to enhance your quality of life. This involves physical activity, rest, and the use of assistive technology.

• Exercise can help to strengthen muscles, which can aid to ease joint discomfort.
• Getting enough sleep will aid in the reduction of inflammation, pain, and weariness.
• Cold compresses or ice packs might assist to relieve inflammation and pain. They may also be useful in the treatment of muscle spasms.
• Canes and crutches can help you stay active. In addition, grab bars and handrails can be installed in bathrooms and along stairwells.

Rheumatoid arthritis causes

The specific causes of RA is unknown. Certain variables, however, appear to have a role in raising the chance of getting RA or initiating its start.

The following factors may raise your risk of RA:

• being a woman
• having a genetic history of RA

Factors that may contribute to the beginning of RA include:

• exposure to specific germs, such as those linked to periodontal disease
• a history of viral infections
• trauma or injury, such as bone
• cigarette smoking
• obesity