Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid
arthritis (RA) is a disease that causes joint pain and swelling.
It
primarily involves inflammation of the lining of the joints but can also
involve internal organs such as the eyes, lungs and heart.
Rheumatoid
arthritis is a chronic disease, which means it lasts a long time. Many people
with RA note that their arthritis symptoms change over time. At times, people
with RA will notice their disease is more active and at others they will notice
their disease is less active.
Causes
v Rheumatoid arthritis is a common disease.
v RA is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's natural
immune system does not act as it should. Instead of serving to fight off
infections from bacteria and viruses, the immune system of a person with RA
attacks its own body. This causes inflammation and damage. In RA, many parts of
the body can be attacked by the immune system, but joints are the most common
targets.
v Approximately 75 percent of people with the disease are women.
v It can occur at any age; however, RA often begins when people
are between the ages of 30 and 60 years old.
v The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known.
v Scientists have learned that there are both genetic and
environmental components to developing the disease. In other words, while there
are certain genes associated with RA, there are many people with RA who do not
have any specific genetic tendency for the disease. This means that something
else, besides a person's genetic make-up, is needed to get the disease.
v Because rheumatoid arthritis frequently tends to attack the
joints, most of its symptoms are joint-related. However, while the joints are
the most likely part of the body to be affected in RA, it is important to
remember that the disease is a systemic disorder and can also affect many other
organs in the body, manifesting in other symptoms as well.
Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis:
•
Joint pains
•
Joint swelling
•
Joint stiffness
•
Fatigue
•
Skin nodules (bumps under the skin)
It is
often difficult to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
The
diagnosis of RA is made based on the careful analysis of many factors. A
thorough history and physical examination are essential. Also, there are
certain laboratory studies that can be helpful when considering the diagnosis.
It is important to note that a diagnosis cannot be made based on any specific
blood test, though some blood tests are helpful for ruling out other diseases
that may have similar symptoms. X-rays are often helpful when considering the
diagnosis of RA, particularly to look for any signs of joint destruction.
Medications
and physical therapy are important in the management of RA. In addition,
because RA is a chronic disease, people often require medical therapy for many
years to keep the disease under control.
Manage Arthritis
When
it's cold outside, your arthritis symptoms can worsen. Cold temperatures make
muscles, tendons and ligaments tighten. And when you tighten up, you increase
the risk of joint injury or pain and you may not want to be active. Lack of
exercise weakens the heart and can decrease muscle strength and cause weight
gain. Inactivity also causes your joints to become more at risk for injury.
Extra
weight means painful joints and weak muscles due to de conditioning. Please keep
moving!
Few tips to help stay active:
ü Fluids: It's very important to drink water. Water helps maintain your
body's fluid balance and improve circulation.
ü Diet: Healthy foods can help you fight arthritis by maintaining
normal body weight. Eat a healthy balance of fruits, vegetables, fish, whole
grains, nuts and seeds. A multivitamin may be a good idea if you do not always
eat a balanced diet. Most adults do not take in enough dairy products to
maintain bone health. Calcium supplements and vitamin are essential to reduce
risk of osteoporosis.
ü Exercise: Walking, yoga and swimming (and other activities) are
important. These activities will increase blood flow, bring important oxygen to
your body, and help reduce joint pain. Exercise also increases mobility and
muscle strength. Remember to stretch gently so your muscles don't tighten up.
ü Rest: It's important to get regular, consistent sleep to give your
body time to heal both from the exercise and cold weather. Good sleep also
reduces fatigue and combats the winter "blues".
ü Warmth: Keep arthritic areas wrapped or protected with warm clothing.
ü Medications: Take your medicine on time every day as prescribed.
Vivekanantha
Clinic Consultation Champers at
Chennai:- 9786901830
Pondicherry:- 9865212055
Panruti:- 9443054168
For appointment please Call us or Mail Us
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