Skip to main content

RA Signs & Symptoms

3 minute read

By Check

Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful, chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder that affects primarily the small joints within the body. The body’s immune system attacks the body’s own healthy tissues by mistake, causing painful swelling and possible permanent damage to joints.

Who Develops Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect anyone, but there are certain factors which may raise a person’s risk of developing it. These factors include sex, age and family history. Rheumatoid arthritis is much more common in women, and even more common in those over 40. It is also much more likely that a person will develop rheumatoid arthritis if someone in their immediate family also suffers from the disease.

Diagnosis

In the early stages of the disease it can be difficult to diagnose because it presents many physical symptoms that overlap with other health conditions. That is why patients are encouraged to keep a diary of their physical symptoms so that they can present them when meeting with the doctor. This helps to give a better insight as to what the patient is dealing with on a daily basis.

Blood tests may help to give the doctor a diagnosis as those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis have elevated levels of erythrocyte sedimentation rate or anti-cyclic citrullinate d peptide antibodies. These may show that there is inflammation taking place within the body.

The doctor will also do a physical examination of the joints and ligaments, feeling them for warmth and looking for inflammation. Once a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis has been made the doctor will continue to check on the progression of the disease using X-rays and physical inspections.

Screen Shot 2016-06-15 at 6.54.33 PM

Treatment

Unfortunately there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but there are many treatment options that can help to alleviate symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.

Medications are often the first line of action when it comes to treating the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Pain and inflammation are often the most common symptoms which are often treated with Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can help to limit permanent damage to the joints and surrounding tissue. Steroids including prednisone slow down the debilitating effects of the disease including joint deformation, damage, pain and inflammation.

Physiotherapy is also a very common type of treatment. It can help people to maintain flexibility and movement within the joints. A physiotherapist will also help to develop a program including exercises and stretches for the patient and their personal mobility needs.

Surgery is often a last resort when it comes to treating rheumatoid arthritis. Surgery is used to help restore movement and physical ability to severely damaged joints and tendons.

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

There are many effective treatments that a person can do at home to help alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Soaking in a warm bath with Epsom salts can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Applying a cold or hot compress directly to the affected joints can also help to reduce pain.

Exercising regularly can also help to reduce the stiffness felt around the joints while strengthening the muscles. Low stress activity includes walking, aqua sports and stretching can all be very beneficial.

Symptoms

People who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis are also at an increased risk of developing other health conditions. These conditions include heart problems, lung disease, carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoporosis. People who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis may also become isolated and depressed as they are no longer physically able to do many things that use to be easy for them.

 

Explore

Considering Live-in Care: How It Could Positively Impact You and Your Loved One Health

Considering Live-in Care: How It Could Positively Impact You and Your Loved One

Key Takeaways A live-in caregiver provides more than continuous medical care, offering emotional support and companionship as well. The costs of in-home care can vary significantly, depending on whether your loved one requires hourly, daily, or overnight rates. As we age, health issues can render us less independent, prompting the need for additional support. Caring […]

Read More about Considering Live-in Care: How It Could Positively Impact You and Your Loved One

4 minute read

The Gift of Pure Water: The Benefits of Installing a Water Filter in Your Household Health

The Gift of Pure Water: The Benefits of Installing a Water Filter in Your Household

Key Takeaways Tap water can contain harmful pollutants that cause gastrointestinal illnesses, lead poisoning, and Hepatitis A. A water filter is a one-time investment that saves you money year-round, reducing the need for water bottles and possibly medical bills. Investing in water filtration also has a positive effect on the environment, reducing the amount of […]

Read More about The Gift of Pure Water: The Benefits of Installing a Water Filter in Your Household

4 minute read

These Surprising Benefits Of Gut Health Can Reshape Your Mind And Body Health

These Surprising Benefits Of Gut Health Can Reshape Your Mind And Body

Key Takeaways To maintain a variety of microbes for optimal gut health, consume a variety of healthy foods, get exercise, and sleep well. Poor gut health can not only lead to chronic illnesses, but mental illnesses as well. Probiotics can help you boost your microbiome and discover all of the positive effects of a healthy […]

Read More about These Surprising Benefits Of Gut Health Can Reshape Your Mind And Body

4 minute read