Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the tissues in the joints and causes inflammation, stiffness, and severe pain.

It’s a type of arthritis that also affects the body’s immune system, which may damage several organs of the body.

Moreover, RA affects people of any age, gender, and ethnic background, although women are more likely to be diagnosed than men.

The symptoms vary in severity and can range from mild to severe. Treatment for RA includes medications and lifestyle changes, and the earlier a diagnosis is made, the better the outcome.

This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in greater detail.

So, stick to the end and know everything about rheumatoid arthritis. Let’s start with the causes.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis

According to the best Orthopedic Doctor in Patna, the cause of rheumatoid arthritis is still unknown.

In other words, there are no particular causes of RA. Every patient suffers due to different causes.

But some professionals believe that it happens due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

Moreover, they also suggest that some people are predisposed to RA as their genes play a vital role in the development of the disease.

However, research is still ongoing to determine the exact cause of this chronic inflammatory condition.

Some professionals also suggest common causes of RA, including bacterial or viral infections, environmental toxins, and hormones.

Symptoms of RA

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person and often differ in severity.

Depending on the severity of the condition, the symptoms may include:

• Joint swelling.
• Tenderness.
• Aching.
• Loss of joint function.
• Weakness.
• Severe pain.
• Inflammation and fatigue.

In addition, other early signs of rheumatoid arthritis include dry eyes and mouth, fever, and weight loss.

According to research, the signs and symptoms of RA vary from mild to severe and increase with time, so it’s better to take treatment ASAP.

There are some common joints that are highly affected by the symptoms of RA, including hands, wrists, knees, fingers, and more.

Now, if you’re noticing any of the above symptoms, you must consult the best Arthroscopy Surgeon Patna to get a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis

While diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis, the doctor will ask a few questions about the patient’s medical history and lifestyle. After that, he performs physical examinations and takes blood tests.

Note: Blood tests can evaluate inflammation and test for markers of RA, such as the anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) and rheumatoid factor (RF).

Moreover, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs may also be performed to detect any damage to the joints caused by the disease.

After performing a proper diagnosis, the doctor will advise to consider treatment options (based on your test results).

Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

There’s no permanent cure for RA, but doctors suggest a variety of treatment options to reduce its symptoms and improve quality of life.

The treatment options available for RA that can help joints better function include medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery.

Note: It’s important to talk to your doctor about which treatment option is best for you, according to the diagnosis.

#1. Medications

Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

NSAIDs help to reduce swelling, pain, and stiffness, whereas corticosteroids and DMARDs slow down the disease process and help prevent further damage to the joints.

#2. Lifestyle Changes

In addition to medications, lifestyle changes are also an important treatment for RA. Below are some of the things that you need to consider, including:

Exercise: performing regular exercise can help reduce stiffness and pain, as well as improve joint range of motion, balance, strength, and endurance.

Note: It’s important to talk to your doctor/professional about a personalized exercise plan that is tailored to your specific needs.

Healthy Eating: Balanced diet can improve symptoms and overall well-being in people with RA. Eating various foods can help ensure you get adequate vitamins and minerals. Including plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet and limiting processed and sugary foods is important.

Stress Management: It’s important to learn ways to manage stress in order to reduce symptoms of RA. This may include exercising, practising relaxation techniques, or engaging in activities that can help reduce stress. Reducing stress can help improve sleep, mood, and overall well-being.

#3. Surgery for RA

In some instances, surgery may be necessary to treat RA. Types of surgery include joint fusion, joint replacement, and removal of bone spurs.

Talk to the best Joint Replacement Doctor in Patna about surgery’s potential risks and benefits and which surgery suits you best.

Hence, this is everything that you must know about rheumatoid arthritis, from causes to treatments.

Conclusion

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, stiffness, and severe pain in the joints and also affects the other organs in the body.

Moreover, it leads to swollen, red, painful joints and affects their ability to move and function normally.

However, there’s no primary cause of RA, but it’s often caused when the body’s defense (immune) system attacks its cells and tissues.

This disease can affect people of any age, gender, and ethnic background, although women are more likely to be diagnosed than men.

We’ve shared a complete detail of this joint disease in the upper sections of the articles that cover the details from causes to treatment.

Hope you find it informative and helpful. If you have any queries, you can ask in the comments below!