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Arthritis is a musculoskeletal disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It can appear in various forms, one of the most common being rheumatoid arthritis.
If you want to learn more about this condition, read the article until the end. We will explore the nature of the disease, focus on its symptoms, discuss its causes, and share methods to help you cope with chronic pain and inflammation.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis, also known as polyarthritis, is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness. It most commonly affects the small and medium joints, such as those in the fingers and toes, but in advanced stages, it can involve larger joints like the knees and shoulders.
Unlike other types of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis usually appears symmetrically in the same joints on both sides of the body. If left untreated, the disease can not only affect your mobility but also damage the function of some organs, including the eyes, heart, and lungs.
What Are the Risk Factors for Developing Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Although rheumatoid arthritis can affect anyone, some factors increase the risk of developing the disease. These include:
- Age – The disease most commonly occurs in people between 30 and 60 years old.
- Heredity – If you have a family history of rheumatoid arthritis, your chances of developing it are higher.
- Gender – Rheumatoid arthritis is about three times more common in women than men. Scientists believe this may be due to reproductive and hormonal factors.
- Smoking – Long-term smoking increases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. If you develop the condition and continue to smoke, symptoms may be more severe.
- Periodontal disease – This inflammatory disease causes tooth loss and is linked to a higher risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Overweight – Some studies suggest that excess weight can increase the risk.
- Lung diseases – Conditions related to the lungs and respiratory system may contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis.
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
As mentioned, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy joint tissues, causing damage. Scientists are still uncertain about the exact causes, but some hypotheses include infections, harmful habits, stress, and environmental pollution.
Research also points to changes in the genes of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA), which regulate the immune system’s ability to distinguish between proteins produced by the body and those introduced by bacteria or viruses. When these genes malfunction, the immune system cannot respond properly to threats to healthy tissues, leading to inflammation that damages the joints.
What Are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis presents various symptoms, including:
- Pain;
- Warm and swollen joints;
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after prolonged inactivity;
- Loss of appetite;
- Chronic fatigue;
- Fever;
- Weight loss.
As mentioned earlier, symptoms first affect the smaller joints. If untreated, the condition progresses to larger joints and may also impact:
- Skin;
- Eyes;
- Lungs;
- Heart;
- Kidneys;
- Salivary glands;
- Bone marrow;
- Nervous system;
- Blood vessels.
- What Are the Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
- Rheumatoid arthritis develops in four stages:
Stage 1 – Inflammation appears in the tissues around the joints. You may feel pain and stiffness, but it is difficult to confirm rheumatoid arthritis since changes are not visible on X-rays yet.
Stage 2 – The disease starts damaging the connective tissue of the joints. Stiffness becomes more noticeable, and mobility is limited.
Stage 3 – Inflammation has damaged the joints. Pain and stiffness increase, and the range of motion decreases.
Stage 4 – Inflammation subsides, but the affected joints continue to deteriorate. Symptoms may be severe, leading to loss of mobility.
The disease usually develops over years. Early treatment can slow progression, possibly preventing all stages.
How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging because its symptoms overlap with other diseases. If you notice early signs, contact your doctor. After evaluation, your doctor may refer you to a rheumatologist, who will likely order blood tests and X-rays to assist diagnosis.
What Are the Treatment Methods for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Currently, there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, there are medications to help relieve chronic pain and inflammation. Here are the main options:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
These effectively reduce arthritis pain but may cause side effects like stomach irritation, kidney damage, or heart rhythm problems. Only use them under medical supervision.
Corticosteroids
Among the best pain relievers for rheumatoid arthritis, corticosteroids are usually prescribed short-term. Follow your doctor’s directions carefully, as improper use may lead to bone thinning, weight gain, or diabetes.
Biologic drugs
New biologics are administered via injection or infusion, following a schedule set by your doctor. Starting them early can slow disease progression. Stopping treatment abruptly may worsen symptoms.
What Are Alternative Ways to Manage Chronic Pain and Inflammation?
Medication is not the only way to manage symptoms. Some alternative methods include:
Regular physical activity
Immobility worsens symptoms. Swimming is ideal as it reduces joint stress, strengthens muscles, and improves motion range. If swimming isn’t possible, consider gym workouts, running, cycling, long walks, or yoga.
Dietary changes
Certain foods can exacerbate inflammation. Avoid:
Fried meats (prefer boiling or moderate-temperature baking);
Trans fats (found in many packaged snacks and margarine);
Sugar (in sodas, sweets, natural juices);
Gluten-containing foods.
Heat therapy
Professional physiotherapy is recommended for heat treatment tailored to your condition. At home, a warm damp towel wrapped around painful joints for about 20 minutes or warm showers can relax muscles, improve mobility, and reduce pain and stiffness.
Conclusion
Living with rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging without timely symptom management. Although there is no cure yet, several methods exist to alleviate symptoms and slow the disease’s progression.
This article is for informational purposes and does not replace consultation with a specialist. For more helpful articles, please visit our health portal.
