Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects many people globally. It mainly targets joints and other body systems with inflammation. This leads to discomfort for individuals as there’s no certain cure yet. Thus, understanding the disease is crucial.
In this article, we will deep dive into what makes you prone to RA. Also, we will discuss symptoms and the different types of RA. We will discuss how doctors detect it, and what therapy they may use. Lastly, we will explore the challenges you might face, giving you handy tips to cope with this disease.
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Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term illness that damages joints and other parts of the body. The immune system fights healthy tissues by mistake. This affects the lining of joints and makes them swell. Over time, this leads to damage to the bones and joint parts, causing changes in the body’s shape and mobility.
Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two well-known conditions affecting the joints yet both differ. RA results from autoimmune-based inflammation, while osteoarthritis stems from wear and tear of joints. Both of these conditions cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in joints. However, RA usually affects other parts of the body as well along with the joints, while osteoarthritis affects only joints.
RA may start with mild symptoms which get worse over time. Detecting early warning signs leads to better management. This may help results in the long run. Early signs may include:
Stress, pushing too hard, and body changes may cause RA to flare up. This leads to short-term increase in pain and swelling in local areas. Detecting these factors may help keep flare-ups under control.
Genes can play a part in making you prone to rheumatoid arthritis. About half of the RA risk comes from the genes passed down in families. Certain inherited genes, like HLA-DR4, are tied to a higher chance of getting this disease.
Coming in contact with certain things in the environment, like diseases, viruses, and bacteria, might trigger RA in people prone to it. While we still don’t know for sure what these triggers could be, it is thought that they may push the immune system to fight. This can lead to swelling and joint damage.
Studies hint at body changes tied to the start of RA. Women get RA more often than men. This could point to a link between body hormones and the onset of the disease.
Smoking stands out as a big risk factor for RA, more so in those with genes making them prone to it. Giving up smoking can reduce the risk of getting RA or how bad the disease gets.
Seropositive RA shows high levels of antibodies like the rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP), in blood tests. These antibodies make the immune system attack healthy joint tissues. This type of RA is most common. Its symptoms might get worse than seronegative RA.
In seronegative RA, no RF or anti-CCP antibodies show up in blood tests.
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, now known as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), affects children aged 17 or below. Like RA in adults, JIA causes joints to become inflamed, stiff, and painful. However, kids with JIA can also have eye inflammation, growth problems, and other unique issues.
Blood tests can detect markers of inflammation and antibodies to help diagnose RA. Important blood tests include:
Imaging tests can detect joint damage and track how the disease progresses.
RA shares similar signs with other diseases making differential diagnosis key. By checking blood and imaging results and doing a detailed clinical examination, doctors try to find the exact cause of joint pain and inflammation.
If RA is detected, there are many management options that may help ease symptoms, slow the worsening of the disease, and improve overall quality of life.
Types of drugs that help manage RA include:
Over-the-counter NSAIDs may ease pain and inflammation. For severe symptoms, prescription-strength NSAIDs might be needed. However, potential side effects should be duly considered.
Corticosteroids can quickly ease inflammation and pain while slowing damage to joints. Use over the long term has dangers, so doctors may suggest a tapering off in the management plan.
DMARDs slow down disease by turning down the overactive immune response. Regular checks are important due to potential side effects like damage to the liver.
Biologic drugs target the body’s inflammation response. They often work better when given with DMARDs.
JAK inhibitors block molecules tied to inflammation. They are used when DMARDs and biologics aren’t enough to manage pain and inflammation.
All the above drugs come with their own set of side effects, which can be severe; thus these should be taken only under the guidance of your doctor in accordance with the recommended doses.
Physical therapy helps maintain joint movement and strengthen muscles around affected joints. Occupational therapy can teach ways to do daily tasks with less stress on joints and introduce handy tools to improve day-to-day living.
When drugs and therapy can’t control symptoms or avoid joint damage, surgical options might be considered which are described below.
Joint replacement surgery removes damaged joint parts and inserts a prosthesis made from metal and plastic parts.
When joint replacement is not an option, joint fusion may improve stability, lessen pain, and restore function.
Also Read: CRP Test vs ESR Test: Understanding the Differences and Significance
Adjusting daily habits and using new tactics can greatly improve RA management.
Regular low-impact exercise, like walking, swimming, or yoga, may improve overall well-being and flexibility.
A balanced diet, with foods fighting inflammation like fatty fish, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, may help general health and may help control RA symptoms.
More than enough rest and sleep are key for managing RA. Changes in daily tasks are needed based on each person’s changing tiredness levels and symptoms.
Putting heat or cold packs may ease RA-related pain, swelling, and stiffness for a short time.
Tools that help, like splints, braces, and tailor-made supports may lessen stress on joints and improve the quality of life when living with RA.
Some alternative therapies may help in managing RA symptoms which are described below.
Acupuncture uses thin needles at key points in the body to potentially ease pain and inflammation. This practice is usually considered safe when done by a trained professional.
Regular massage therapy may help handle RA symptoms like joint stiffness and muscle tightness by promoting relaxation and improving overall well-being.
Supplements, like fish oil, evening primrose oil, or plant-based extracts, may have anti-inflammatory properties helpful for RA management. Before starting any supplement plan, talk to a healthcare provider to ensure safety and avoid problems with other drugs.
RA can affect other body systems and parts on a daily basis leading to inflammation.
Not controlling RA can lead to joints permanently changing, severely affecting movement and function.
People with RA have weak immune systems, making them prone to infections, especially if they take drugs that suppress immunity.
RA makes the risk of heart diseases, like heart attacks and strokes, higher.
Inflammation in lung tissue due to RA may lead to short breaths and possible scarring.
RA inflammation can cause dry eyes and discomfort. This leads to potential sight issues if not treated.
Dealing with RA often needs adjusting to changes in lifestyle and counseling which can be obtained from the following sources:
Connecting with others who have RA may provide an emotional boost and handy advice on facing the obstacles tied to handling the disease.
A team of healthcare providers, like doctors, therapists, and mental health experts, can make a full care plan suited to the person’s needs.
Focusing on caring for your emotional well-being through self-care tactics, handling stress, and a balanced lifestyle may affect overall health and coping abilities in a good way.
Rheumatoid arthritis, a complex autoimmune disorder, throws many hurdles to those affected by it. By enhancing our understanding of its origins, symptoms, risk markers, and the various management options, we may better manage this long-lasting condition. While progress in science keeps exploring new paths for fighting RA, an active mix of drugs, therapies, and lifestyle changes may greatly better overall quality of life for patients.
Sadly, there is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis at present. However, with proper diagnosis, medical care, and lifestyle changes, many people may manage their symptoms well and slow the worsening of the disease.
Although rheumatoid arthritis is not just a hereditary disease, genes do play a part in its origins. People with a family history of RA may have a higher risk of getting the disease.
Some study hints that avoiding inflammation-boosting foods, like processed carbohydrates and bad fats, may help manage RA symptoms. Adding more anti-inflammation foods, like fatty fish, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables, may positively affect symptoms.
Following a management plan set by a healthcare provider, keeping an apt exercise routine, sticking to a balanced diet, and managing stress well may help slow the worsening of rheumatoid arthritis and keep a better quality of life.
Natural aids for easing RA pain may include heat or cold therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal supplements. However, always speak with a healthcare provider before trying any new management to ensure your safety and avoid potential negative effects or problems with other drugs.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
One of the commonly diagnosed inflammatory arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by definite swelling of at least one joint, which happens due to underlying bony erosions and cartilage destruction. Older age, smoking, and a family history of the disease are commonly associated with increased risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis.
So rheumatoid arthritis include stiff joints, swelling, fatigue, flu-like symptoms, and loss of range of motions such as the inability to reach out things within reach. With a lifetime prevalence of 1% worldwide, the onset of this disease could lead to significant disability in individuals. It is, therefore, always advisable to get an early detection to avoid an increased likelihood of the severity of the disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis could be challenging to diagnose, especially during its early stages as it shares similarities with signs and symptoms of many other diseases and other forms of arthritis. In a typical diagnosis, your doctor will do the preliminary checking of your joints for specific swelling or redness. In fact, your doctor might even ask you to demonstrate your reflexes or muscle strength. The chances of diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis increase if many smaller joints are involved.
Unlike other diseases, there is no specific blood test to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. The standard blood tests look for an elevated sedimentation rate of erythrocyte (ESR) or C- reactive protein (CRP). In fact, patients having inflammatory arthritis with the presence of rheumatoid factor or anti-citrullinated protein antibody stand more chances of being diagnosed as having rheumatoid arthritis. The indication of the existence of either of these inflammatory process in your blood test reports suggests a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.
Apart from blood tests, your doctor may suggest you get X-rays to gain better insight into the progression of your arthritis over a period. An MRI and ultrasound tests could better judge the severity and the complexity of the disease in your body. Therefore, your doctor may recommend these tests as well, especially if you are already diagnosed with this disease.
The management of rheumatoid arthritis typically requires long-term treatment to control the progression of the disease. However, patients may become apprehensive about the potential side effects of medications, leading them to discontinue treatment, which can exacerbate their condition. It’s crucial for patients to discuss their concerns with their doctor and ideally seek advice and treatment from a specialist who holds DM in Rheumatology.
Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Even though there is no particular treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, the advancement in clinical science suggests that early detection and timely treatment of this disease with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) could lead to better prognosis and remission of symptoms.
The kind of medications that one is prescribed is highly dependent on the severity and the timeline of the symptoms. Some of the primary medications used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis include- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the reduction in pain and inflammation, steroids for slow joint damage, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for the slow progression of symptoms, and reducing the chances of permanent joints damage. Also, inform your doctor if you have any history of allergy to medicines (if experienced in the past).
These drugs mostly work on the target immune system responsible for inflammation that leads to joint and tissue damage. However, they also point to specific side effects and increased risk of other infections. Therefore, it is recommended to use prescribed medications under the supervision of your doctor.
Read More: 10 Anti-Inflammatory Foods To Add To Your Diet
Sometimes, doctors may advise you to consult a physiotherapist or an occupational therapist to help you with basic exercises to keep your joints flexible and lower the risk of more wear and tear of joints tissue.
In case medications and physiotherapy don’t work, your doctor may ask you to consider surgery for damaged joints. Surgery is the best suitable option to correct joint deformities and pain reduction if medications are not much of a success. Some of the commonly used surgical procedures for rheumatoid arthritis involve synovectomy (for removal of the inflamed lining of joints), tendon repair surgery, joint fusion surgery, and total joint replacement (which consists of the insertion of the prosthesis).
It is always recommended to discuss the benefits and risks of surgery before undergoing such a procedure.
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Effective treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis is highly dependent on how early it is detected. Therefore, if you experience any of the symptoms such as swelling, inflammation, fatigue, or any of the signs above, it is imperative that you reach out to your doctor and talk about the treatment plan to combat this disease as early as possible.
Also Read: Rheumatoid Arthritis: Breaking Down Research Findings and Available Management Options
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
The fact that a person has arthritis tells nothing about the cause or the cure. Joints can be inflamed as a result of an injury, such as from tripping and spraining an ankle. That’s called traumatic arthritis. Joints can be infected with bacteria resulting in suppurative arthritis. Uric acid crystals can accumulate in the joints causing gouty arthritis. The causes of all three of these forms of arthritis are known and once the causes are stopped the joints heal with the help of special Food for Arthritis. Unfortunately, most forms of arthritis are said by doctors to have ”no known cause.”
Arthritis of ”no known cause” can be divided into two broad categories: degenerative arthritis and inflammatory arthritis. Degenerative arthritis most commonly represents a condition known as osteoarthritis. The inflammatory forms of arthritis include juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Arthritis is not a genetic disease, nor is it an inevitable part of growing older–there are causes for these joint afflictions, and they lie in our environment–our closest contact with our environment is our food.
Based on what I have seen, excessive sugar intake can lead to inflammation in the body, that may worsen the symptoms of arthritis. Consuming just 40 grams of sugar, found in a single can of soda, can trigger an inflammatory response. To help alleviate arthritis pain, I recommend cutting down on sugary foods and drinks.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
Dietary fats can influence inflammation, a major factor in rheumatoid arthritis. This is the type of arthritis that occurs as a result of the body’s immune system mistakenly launching an attack on the joints.
High dose fish oil capsules, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have anti-inflammatory action. The clinical trials show modest benefit with this Food for Arthritis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Read More: Health Benefits of Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Brightly colored fruits and vegetables – such as oranges, bell peppers, pumpkins, tangerines, and papayas – contain carotenoids called beta-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin are some of the best food for arthritis. Some studies suggest that diets rich in carotenoids decrease inflammation.
A small Swedish study of rheumatoid arthritis sufferers who ate a Mediterranean diet (including lots of vegetables and fruits) for three months found that it reduced inflammation and enhanced joint function. Aim for seven to nine servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
Read More: Top Anti-Inflammatory Food To Include in Your Diet
Because it has not had its bran and germ stripped away during processing, brown rice is nutrient-rich. Use it as a replacement in any recipe that calls for white rice, but you’ll need to use more water and adjust cooking times.
Arthritis doesn’t mean you have to live like a saint. Modest amounts of salt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract are usually well-tolerated in the food for arthritis.
From my experience, it’s important to be mindful of the type of carbohydrates you consume, especially if you have arthritis. Refined carbs found in bread, crackers, white rice, and potatoes can trigger inflammation and worsen arthritis symptoms. Opt for healthier carbohydrate sources like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to help manage arthritis pain and improve your overall health.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
These foods are a major driver of inflammation and arthritis. Allergy or intolerance to wheat and gluten is extremely common and joint pain is one of the most common manifestations of the immune response to these foods.
Milk and all foods that contain it are just as bad as gluten for many people with arthritis. The protein in milk is called casein, and it irritates the gut lining and promotes leaky gut syndrome.
Lactose is not the culprit; therefore drinking lactose-free milk is not the solution. Some people can tolerate milk made by goats or sheep. Through a process of trial and error, you can see if you are one of them.
Although it’s called vegetable oil, the unhealthy oils to avoid generally come from seeds. The delicate fatty acids in these oils are damaged during the process of extraction and refinement. They are further damaged if you heat them during cooking.
Damaged fats create an enormous amount of free radical damage in your body. The oils to avoid are cottonseed, canola, soybean, sunflower, safflower, rice bran, grapeseed and corn oil.
You have a lot of control over whether or not you will develop arthritis, and how severe arthritis may be. The food you choose to eat or decide to avoid can make all the difference.
Read More: 6 Early Signs of Arthritis to Watch Out For
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Some diseases cling to us for life and arthritis is one of them. Yes, when one must think of it, having arthritis can be very overwhelming and daunting. Unfortunately, there is a lack of awareness of the types of arthritis and therefore, this disease is often treated as one type only. Also, with rumour mills spilling over with wrong advice, there is much chaos, unrest and confusion surrounding the disease.There are at least 18 crore Indians who suffer from arthritis, irrespective of the type or stage of the disease. Here are five critical ways to manage the disease –
