Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease marked by chronic inflammation of the joints and involvement of the autoimmune system. It can affect the connective tissues of the joints as well as muscles and some organs of the body. Rheumatoid arthritis is often triggered by an infection which compels the immune system to attack cells with antibodies. While the immune system is fighting the infection, it also attacks the tissues surrounding certain joints, which causes them to deteriorate resulting in malfunctioning joints. In this way, rheumatoid arthritis is considered an autoimmune disease or a systemic illness because it can affect multiple or all areas of the body.
As it is a chronic illness, the effects of rheumatoid arthritis can be suffered for years. Some people go years without experiencing any symptoms. However, this disease is progressive and will eventually result in joint destruction and functional disability.
Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Although no definite cause of rheumatoid arthritis can be determined, the disease is most commonly believed to be triggered by infection from viruses, fungi or bacteria. Medical research is ongoing in this area. Current theories of causes for rheumatoid arthritis include environmental conditions and hereditary predisposition as the most common contributing factors.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are intermittent and coincide with the degree of tissue inflammation. Since this disease is incurable, the absence of symptoms only means that the inflammation has subsided, but will return. Symptoms can include malaise, stiffness, low-grade fever, joint and muscle pain and a lack of appetite. Generally, the patient will experience more acute pain in the joints and muscles after periods of inactivity especially after a night of sleep.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Since rheumatoid arthritis is an irreversible condition, treatment is generally focused on relieving the pain and preventing further joint damage or deformity. Treatment also includes joint function maintenance and maximization. The course of treatment will vary according to the patient’s age, general health, stage of the disease, affected areas of the body, occupation and life style. A combination of exercise, therapy, medication, joint protection and patient education will be utilized in treatment. Effective treatment requires a compliant patient and supportive family members, when possible.
In addition to medication, there are some actions that can be taken by the patient to assist in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Muscles surrounding affected joints can be strengthened be gentle exercise. A steady regimen can also decrease fatigue. Maintaining a healthy diet including fruits, vegetables and whole grains help to control weight as well as arming the body with necessary nutrition to increase general health. Devices designed to assist in mobility should be used to decrease the stress on affected weight-bearing joints and limbs. The use of heat treatments can provide pain relief as well as relaxing the patient. Cold applications can dull acute pain.
