Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that affects the joints of hands, knees, wrists, and various body systems like skin, lungs, eyes, blood vessels, and heart. It is a chronic inflammatory disorder in which the immune system attacks the healthy tissues of the body.
It can lead to joint deformity and bone erosion that is caused because this disorder affects the lining of the joints.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of RA is joint pain and inflammation. There are other symptoms as well like:
– Stiffness, swelling, and tenderness of the joints
– Loss of join functions
– Fatigue and weakness
– fever
– loss of appetite
It is crucial to identify these symptoms and get proper medical attention for the treatment to be more effective.
Causes
RA is caused when the immune system of the body attacks the healthy body tissues and damages the bones, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. RA needs to be treated on time so that one does not face consequences like the loss of shape and alignment. Some factors can onset the possibility of RA which include:
– Gender: Generally, females have higher chances of developing RA
– Age: people on and above 50 have higher chances of RA
– Family history of rheumatoid arthritis
– Smoking
– Obesity
– Diet: adding too much sugar, sodium, iron, and red meat increases the possibility of facing RA.
Treatment
It is an autoimmune disease with no cure. But a professional knee doctor can help ease the pain and other symptoms. There are treatments available that can help you in managing the repercussions of this condition. This treatment helps in controlling the pain and the inflammatory responses. The treatment includes:
Medication
Some medications help in reducing the inflammation and pain. This medication includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, and corticosteroids. These drugs help lessen the pain and slow the damages of rheumatoid arthritis.
Home remedies
Certain life adjustments like exercising, and resting can do wonders in treating your rheumatoid arthritis. Low-impact workouts like gentle yoga can improve your mobility and the motion of the joints. It can provide strength to the muscles and can increase flexibility in the body. You must also get enough rest to reduce the pain and inflammation. You can also apply a hot and cold compress to reduce inflammation and pain.
It is advisable for people to use assistive devices like braces and splints. These devices provide support to the joints and can reduce inflammation. You can also use canes and grab bars while walking or using the washroom.
Diet
You must add food items that are high in omega-3 fatty acids like chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, and fatty fish. Food products like barriers, spinach, kidney beans, and dark chocolates help curtail inflammation. These food items are high in antioxidants and vitamins like A, C, and E. Eating high-fiber food and food with flavonoids also helps in managing rheumatoid arthritis.
Conclusion
Rheumatoid arthritis is a physical condition with no cure. The symptoms of this disease vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. If you experience any such symptoms, it is sensible to get medical assistance immediately.