While there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, millions of Americans are living productive lives by controlling the disorder with drugs, exercise and rest, according to the Arthritis Foundation. The autoimmune disorder causes swelling in the joints and can lead to a host of degenerative conditions throughout the body. An early diagnosis of the autoimmune disorder through blood tests, X-rays and body scans greatly increases the manageability of the characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis.
Definition
Classified as an autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis causes the immune system to attack the body's joints. Inflammation of the joints, the area around the joints (tendons, ligaments and muscles) and internal organs is common of this systematic illness. Onset can occur at any age, developing in a few weeks to months. People ages 40 to 60 are most commonly diagnosed with this condition.
Symptoms
Affecting both small and large joints, rheumatoid arthritis is often symmetrical. It's common for pain to occur in both sides of the body, such as both wrists or both hips. Flare-ups tend to be in the morning, and last longer than an hour. Patients report pain, stiffness and swelling in their joints.
Effects
Destruction of joints, ligaments, cartilage and limited mobility are potential long-term effects from the chronic inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis. During flare-ups, patients might also feel fatigue, low grade fevers and a loss of appetite. Doing tasks such as turning a door knob or tying a shoe can be difficult when the wrists and joints in the fingers are effected. Anemia is common among patients because of the inflammation of the joints.
Treatments
Lasting for years to a lifetime, the chronic condition can go long periods without flare-ups. While taking medications, the condition can be in remission for months, or even years. Prescribed by a rheumatologist, nonsteroidal antiinflammitory mediations can reduce inflammation and pain. Rest and joint-strengthening exercises help slow the progress of the condition, but as of 2009, there is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis.
Facts
Affecting women three times more often than men, rheumatoid arthritis effects all races equally. According to Medicine Net, environmental conditions or genetics might be to blame for the disorder spreading among family members.
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