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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease. Primarily affects the joints & tissue.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Himanshu Paneru

2/7/20243 मिनट पढ़ें

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Some of the factors that are thought to contribute to the development of RA include:

Genetics: A family history of RA increases the risk of developing the condition.
Environmental factors: Such as smoking, pollution, and infections, can increase the risk of developing RA.
Immune system dysfunction: In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, including the joints. It is not clear what triggers this immune system dysfunction, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Age: RA can occur at any age but commonly seen at age of 40 and 60.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing RA.

Joint pain and stiffness: RA affects multiple joints such as hands, wrists, knees, ankles, and feet.
Swelling and redness: The skin over the joints may appear red and feel warm to the touch.
Fatigue: RA can cause persistent fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell.
Reduced range of motion: As RA progresses, joint damage can lead to a decreased range of motion. Affected joints may become increasingly difficult to move and may eventually become deformed or misaligned.
Systemic symptoms: fever, weight loss, loss of appetite, dry eyes and mouth, malaise.
Rheumatoid nodules: Lumps that develop under the skin, typically over pressure points or joints.

Complications associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can vary and affect different parts of the body. Some common complications that occur in RA are :

Joint damage and deformity: RA can cause joint inflammation, erosion of the cartilage and bone, leading to joint damage and deformity.
Rheumatoid nodules: Lumps that develop under the skin, typically around pressure points such as the elbows and hands. Usually painless they can become inflamed and cause discomfort.
Cardiovascular problems: RA increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Chronic inflammation in RA can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis.
Lung complications: RA can affect the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. Conditions such as pleurisy pulmonary fibrosis.
Eye complications: RA-related inflammation can affect the eyes & cause vision problem.
Osteoporosis: Use of corticosteroids, commonly prescribed for RA treatment, can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Increased infection risk: Use of certain medications can weaken the immune system.

Diagnosing involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.
The common diagnostic methods used for RA:

Medical History: Your doctor will discuss your symptoms, their duration, & their progression. They will ask about any family history of arthritis or autoimmune diseases.
Physical Examination: Your doctor will examine your joints for swelling, tenderness & range of motion.
Blood Tests: Several blood tests can help in diagnosing RA. These tests may include:
- Rheumatoid Factor (RF): RF is an antibody that is often present in the blood of individuals with RA.
- Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies: These antibodies are more specific to RA and are often present in the blood of individuals with the disease.
- C-reactive protein (CRP) Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): These tests measure the levels of inflammation in the body, which can be elevated in RA.
- Complete blood count (CBC): This test can detect anemia or other abnormalities that may be associated with RA.
Imaging Studies: X-rays, ultrasound, & magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Synovial Fluid Analysis: If necessary, doctor will perform a joint aspiration to collect fluid from an affected joint. The fluid can be analyzed for signs of inflammation conditions.

Treatment plans for RA typically involve a combination of medication, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapies.
some common treatments for RA are :

# Medications:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammator drugs (NSAIDs): These over-the-counter or prescription medications will reduce pain and inflammation
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): Such as methotrexate & leflunomide slow down the progression of RA.
Corticosteroids: It provide rapid relief from inflammation but used for short-term treatment due to potential side effects.

# Lifestyle modifications:

Regular exercise: Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling help to improve joint flexibility, strengthen muscles & reduce pain.
Rest and joint protection: Balancing activity with rest is crucial to avoid overexertion and joint damage.
Hot and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to affected joints help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

# Supportive therapies:

Physical therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to improve joint function and mobility during RA condition.
convenient devices: Devices like braces, splints, or shoe inserts can support joints and reduce pain.

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