Rheumatoid Arthritis: Know Causes, Symptoms And Prevention

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily targets joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function. It occurs when the immune system erroneously attacks the body’s tissues. Distinguished from Osteoarthritis, which results from natural wear and tear, RA lacks definitive causes and a cure. To raise awareness about its symptoms and treatments, World Arthritis Day is observed on October 12.

The initial indication of Rheumatoid Arthritis is joint pain, as outlined by Mayo Clinic. Individuals experiencing such pain should promptly seek medical attention for diagnosis. Ignoring symptoms may lead to extreme fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, it can affect joints like wrists, knees, elbows, hips and shoulders. Failure to address early symptoms may also result in complications impacting the heart, lungs, kidneys, eyes, skin, nerve tissue, bones and blood vessels.

Mayo Clinic reports that Rheumatoid Arthritis predominantly affects women, and those with a family history of the disease are more likely to inherit it. Overweight individuals are also at a higher risk. The treatment approach depends on the severity of the disease. Early stage diagnoses offer better treatment prospects, emphasising the importance of prevention.

Mothers who appropriately introduce milk to their infants may reduce the risk of developing Rheumatoid Arthritis, according to studies. Additional preventive measures include quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight. Regular exercise has also been identified as a factor that can contribute to the prevention of the disease.

To mitigate the impact of Rheumatoid Arthritis, awareness campaigns like World Arthritis Day play a vital role. Encouraging timely medical intervention for symptoms, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and understanding the genetic predispositions associated with the disease are crucial steps in minimizing its prevalence. As ongoing research provides further insights into Rheumatoid Arthritis, the medical community continues to explore preventive measures and effective treatments for those affected by this autoimmune condition.