A Comprehensive Guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Overview:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term (chronic), systemic autoimmune disease that induces inflammation of the joints. Inflammation can get so serious that it changes how joints and other body parts look and work. It results from an immune system malfunction that targets the synovium, the lining of the joints.

It can affect the hands, wrists, knees, and other joints. But in rare cases, RA affects other body parts as well, including the eyes, heart and circulatory system and/or the lungs.

RA may induce deformities in the finger joints, making hand movements difficult. Rheumatoid nodules are lumps that can show up anywhere in the body.

Children can get juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), which is a type of arthritis. RA in adults lasts a lifetime, but JRA in kids usually goes away on its own. The sickness can, however, slow the growth of bones in children.

Rheumatoid arthritis statistics in India:

Generally, rheumatoid arthritis affects about 0.5% to 0.75% of the Indian population, with a higher prevalence in women. The disease primarily strikes individuals between 35 and 50 years of age. For the most current data, consult resources like the Indian Rheumatology Association or recent healthcare studies.

Rheumatoid arthritis causes:

We don’t know what causes RA exactly. Because it is an autoimmune disease, the body’s immune system targets its own healthy tissues and cells, leading to inflammation in and near the joint area, thus damaging the skeletal system. Other organs, such as the heart and lungs, can also get damaged. It happens more in women than in men.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms:

The rheumatoid arthritis symptoms vary in every individual and may include:

• Pain
• Morning stiffness
• Joints swelling
• Less body movements
• Pain increases with joint movements
• The small joints have bumps
• Trouble performing daily activities
• Trouble holding things
• Lack of energy (fatigue)
• Occasional fever

These symptoms are similar to those of other health disorders. It is recommended to consult your healthcare provider for the correct diagnosis.

Rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis

It is a difficult task to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis in the early stages because the symptoms may be mild, and the condition can’t be detected on X-rays or in blood tests. The doctor will conduct your physical examination and take your medical history. RA tests include:

• X-ray: In this, a small amount of radiation is used to generate images of bones, internal tissues, and organs onto film.
• Joint aspiration: This test looks for indications of gout or infection by drawing a tiny amount of fluid from a swollen joint.
• Nodule biopsy: Microscopic examinations are done on very small pieces of tissue. This helps look for cancer or abnormal cells.
• Blood tests: These tests are performed to detect specific antibodies, such as rheumatoid factor and cyclic citrullinated antibody, and other signs of RA.
• Ultrasound, or MRI: Imaging investigations like this can check for inflammation and bone damage.

Rheumatoid arthritis treatment:

RA has no known treatment. Reducing pain and inflammation and promoting function are frequently the objectives of treatment. You might receive one or more forms of RA treatment.

• Medicines. Certain medications can be used to relieve pain. Some are applied to inflammation. Others can aid in preventing the condition from worsening. A rheumatologist should handle medication. Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor the effects of the medicines on your kidneys, liver, and blood cells.
• Splints: Splints may be used to help protect the joints and strengthen weak joints.
• Physical therapy: It is used to strengthen and facilitate movements in the affected areas.

RA treatment

Arthritis surgery

Surgery could be a possibility in some situations if no other therapies are effective. Surgery doesn’t make RA go away. It helps in the correction of the disease’s malformations. RA may continue to produce issues after surgery. Even additional surgery might be required.

One or more of the following procedures may be used during rheumatoid arthritis surgery:

Synovectomy: It is a surgery to clear the inflamed lining of the joint (synovium) that can reduce pain and enhance the joint’s flexibility.

Tendon repair: Tendons around your joint may become loose or break because of inflammation and damage to the joint. The surgeon might be able to repair the tendons surrounding your joint.

Joint fusion: When a joint replacement isn’t an option, it is recommended to fuse a joint surgically to stabilize or realign a joint and to give relief from pain.

Total joint replacement: Also known as arthroplasty, joint replacement surgery involves taking out the broken parts of your joint and replacing them with a metal and plastic prosthesis.

Lifestyle and home remedies

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, take care of your body. When you use these self-care tips along with rheumatoid arthritis medicines, they can help you deal with the symptoms:

• Exercise regularly. Mild exercise can help you feel less tired and strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints. Consult your healthcare provider before you start exercising. If you’re just starting out, begin by going for a walk. Do not exercise if you have tender, injured, or severely inflamed joints.
• Apply heat or cold. Applying heat can help reduce pain and soothe tense, painful muscles. Cold may numb the pain sensation. Applying cold also has a numbing effect and can lessen swelling.
• Relax. Find strategies to manage your pain by lowering your stress levels. Relaxing techniques like guided imagery, muscle relaxation, and deep breathing can be used to manage pain.