The Basics of Rheumatoid Arthritis

If you've recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis — or have a loved one who has — you're likely to have a host of questions. Let's start with the basics: risk factors, symptoms, and treatments. Rheumatoid arthritis, also known as RA, affects more than two million Americans; it's three times more likely in women than men and strikes patients of all ages and races. Symptoms range from mild to severe, with varying degrees of inflammation, swelling, pain, and damage in the joints. While there is no known cause, there are numerous treatments — from medications to lifestyle modifications — to help ease day-to-day living. 

The symptoms of RA vary from person to person and can mimic those of other inflammatory joint conditions, sometimes making the diagnosis difficult. So how can you know if the signs are pointing toward rheumatoid arthritis? One of the unique features of the disease is that it involves the small joints; for example, of the hands or the feet. And the pain is symmetrical — if it affects the first finger on the right hand, it usually will affect the same finger on the left side.

When it comes to diagnosing, treating, and managing your rheumatoid arthritis, experts say a team approach is your best bet. In addition to finding a reputable rheumatologist — your team leader — you may also need help with physical, occupational, and mental therapy to cope with the condition. Alternative and complementary treatments, like acupuncture, are also used to relieve pain. 

The chronic pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis is most often caused by inflammation. In RA, the body's immune system attacks the synovial membrane (the tissue that lines the joints), the tendons, or the ligaments. If not treated properly, the inflammation can affect your heart, increasing the risk of heart disease. Understanding the role of inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis will enable you to work with your doctors to find a suitable treatment. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is unpredictable: In some, the disease will remain active for a year or two. Others may have periods of flares, followed by remissions; and still others may live with the condition for years, resulting in significant and often permanent joint damage. While rheumatoid arthritis mostly begins in the smaller joints of the fingers, hands, and wrists, it can also affect hips, knees, ankles, feet, neck, shoulders and elbows. The good news: diagnosing and treating rheumatoid arthritis early can help slow — and even stop — the damage.

Millions of dollars are spent each year on prescription drug advertisements. Restricting the advertising of prescription medication from TV and every magazine in the grocery store would reduce the cost of medications. 

Source: everydayhealth 

Many conditions that the AMA pushes drugs for can be helped with natural or holistic remedies and even cures.

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