Rheumatoid Arthritis

On this page, you will find everything you need to know about rheumatoid arthritis.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic (long-term) disease that can cause pain and swelling in the joints. It is an autoimmune disease where the immune system fails to recognize the tissues lining the joints, thus attacking them. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the joints of the hands, wrists, and knees.

In a joint affected by rheumatoid arthritis, the lining tissue of the joint becomes inflamed, causing damage. This tissue damage can cause chronic pain or deformity.

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

In rheumatoid arthritis, symptom severity can vary over time and differs from person to person, with periods of exacerbation and improvement.

Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Joint pain.
• Joint stiffness or tightness.
• Redness and swelling in the joints.
• Unintentional weight loss.
• Reduced appetite.
• Fever
• Fatigue or lack of activity.

What causes rheumatoid arthritis?

There is no specific cause for rheumatoid arthritis, but some factors can increase the risk, such as:

• Age: A person can develop rheumatoid arthritis at any age, but the likelihood increases with age, being higher in those over 60 years old.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop it compared to men.
• Genetics: Some studies have shown that rheumatoid arthritis can be inherited and run in families due to genes, though the risk is low. However, these genes play a small role in increasing the chance of developing the disease.
• Smoking: Studies have proven that smoking increases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis and can exacerbate the disease.
• Weight: Being overweight or obese.

What are the methods for diagnosis?

The doctor will take a medical history, conduct a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:

• Joint examination.
• Observing walking, bending, and performing daily activities.
• Examining the skin to ensure the absence of rashes.
• Listening to the chest to rule out lung inflammation.
• Laboratory tests include:
  • Rheumatoid factor (RF): A blood test that measures rheumatoid factor in the blood, an antibody found in some people with rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (anti-CCP): This blood test measures CCP antibodies, found in many people with rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): Measures inflammation in the body.
  • C-reactive protein: Helps diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, monitor disease activity, and the level of response to treatment.
• Other tests include:
  • X-ray: X-rays help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, though they’re not useful in early stages (before joint damage). Doctors may use X-rays to monitor disease progression or rule out other causes of joint pain.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI can assist in diagnosing early rheumatoid arthritis and assessing the extent and severity of joint damage.

What are the treatments for rheumatoid arthritis?

Treatment involves multiple procedures or as needed, and may include:

• Medications: Used only to control symptoms, as there’s no definitive cure.
  • Pain relievers: Such as paracetamol for temporary pain relief.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Such as ibuprofen, to manage inflammation and relieve pain.
  • Corticosteroids: Such as prednisone, to manage or reduce short-term inflammation.
  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): Such as methotrexate, to control overactivity of the immune system.
  • Biologics and biosimilars: They are disease-modifying biologic medicines that modulate the immune system.

• Joint surgery: Surgery may be necessary in some cases with severe joint damage and deterioration, or when there’s a risk of losing joint function.

How can rheumatoid arthritis be prevented?

There is no way to completely prevent rheumatoid arthritis, but there are some tips to reduce the severity of symptoms for those affected:

• Take care of yourself! Self-care includes everything you do daily to maintain physical activity, mental, and physical health, prevent and manage minor illnesses.
• Don’t forget your medication.
• Regular follow-up with your doctor.
• Healthy eating and exercise.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint pressure.
• Use assistive tools or devices designed to help people with rheumatoid arthritis in daily activities, such as:
  • Devices that help with getting up and down from chairs, toilet seats, and beds.
  • Jar openers.
  • Bag carrying tools.
  • Wide key holders.

What complications can arise from rheumatoid arthritis?

If rheumatoid arthritis is not controlled and treated, it may lead to other complications, such as:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome: A common condition in people with rheumatoid arthritis, caused by pressure on the nerve that controls sensation and movement in the hands (median nerve).
• Joint damage: If rheumatoid arthritis is untreated, it can lead to severe and permanent damage.

When should you see a doctor?

If you notice any of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I reduce my risk of cardiovascular diseases resulting from rheumatoid arthritis?

You can reduce the risk by adhering to treatment and following some tips, such as:

• Quit smoking.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Exercise regularly.

Are there any beneficial foods for rheumatoid arthritis?

Maintaining a healthy diet is important. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy diet:

• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, such as brown rice and oats.
• Consume foods containing omega-3.
• Avoid fatty foods, sugars, and high-salt foods.