Editorji Exclusive: Everything you need to know about Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a painful autoimmune and inflammatory disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues in the body, resulting in swelling and aches. The hands, wrists and knees are the most common joints affected by RA. It can also create problems in organs such as the lungs, heart and eyes.

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Symptoms of RA

Some of the signs and symptoms of RA are persistent aches, stiffness and swelling in more than just one joint. Symptoms are common for hands, knee joints and feet with signs of fever, tiredness or fatigue and weakness.

Risk Factors of RA

RA can begin at any age, although it is more prevalent as one grows older. It is most common in adults in their sixties, women are more prone to get affected. There are higher chances of getting affected if there is a family history of the disease. Smoking can also raise the chance of having RA.

Diagnosis of RA

It is difficult to diagnose RA in the early stages. However, a doctor may prescribe the following to ascertain the condition.

● Blood tests: A high ESR or CRP level in people with rheumatoid arthritis may indicate the presence of an inflammatory process in the body.

● Imaging tests: The doctor may recommend x-rays to monitor the progression of rheumatoid arthritis in the joints over time.

Treatment of RA

Medication and self-management measures can effectively treat and manage RA. Disease-modifying antirheumatic medicines (DMARDs) are commonly used to treat RA. They reduce the prolonging of the disease.

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(Inputs from Dr. Veerendra Mudnoor, Consultant Joint Replacement & Arthroscopy Surgeon, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Hyderabad)