What is Rheumatoid Arthritis How Can It Be Treated?

Answer 1

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation around the joints. This condition is classified as an autoimmune disorder. An auto immune disorder is a condition that causes the immune system to attack the body to attack itself. Joint pain, swelling, weight loss and fever are some of the most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

What are some of the risk factors of rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect anyone, but it typically occurs in people who are between the ages of 40 and 60. Women are twice as likely to develop this condition. Smoking cigarettes can also put a person at risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, those who have a family history of this condition are more likely to develop it themselves.

What happens if rheumatoid arthritis is left untreated?

Rheumatoid arthritis will only continue to get worse if it is left untreated. The pain can become so debilitating that a person cannot complete the tasks of daily living. That is why it is very important that people seek treatment early on for this condition.

What are some of the treatments available for rheumatoid arthritis?

A doctor will usually prescribe a medication a non-steroidal-inflammatory drug. Non-steroid inflammatory drug are a class of medications that reduce the pain and inflammation that arthritis causes. If the patient does not respond to a non-steroidal inflammatory drug, the doctor may prescribe a immunosuppresant. Immunosuppressants treat rheumatoid arthritis by suppressing the immune system.

Most of the medications that have been approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis come with unpleasant side effects. That is why doctors will usually prescribe these medications for short-term use. Occupational and physical therapy can help a patient manage the pain better. If the patient does not respond to therapy or medication, the doctor may have to perform surgery as a last resort.

What can people do at home to manage rheumatoid arthritis?

Exercising can help fight fatigue and strengthen the muscles around the affected joints. Applying heat to the affected joints can relieve the pain. There has also been evidence to suggest that fish oil supplements can reduce the pain and inflammation that rheumatoid arthritis causes. However, it is important to consult with a doctor before using any home remedy.