Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Popular Form Of Arthritis

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most popular forms of arthritis. In fact, approximately 2 million Americans are affected by this disease. RA is a type of autoimmune disease and can affect both joints and organs in the body. Pain and inflammation to certain joints in the body often take place in a “symmetrical pattern”. This form of arthritis is most popular in those between the ages of 25 and 50, and is much more likely to take place in women. When this type of pain occurs in children, it comes in the form of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

This systematic disease is caused by a triggering of the body’s immune system which in turn causes swelling in and around the joints of the body. Swelling causes cartilage in the joints to wear down, damages tendons and nerves, and inflicts severe pain on the body. The presence of RA often decreases life expectancy by about 10 to 15 years, depending on genetics and severity of the condition. Disability is also very common in those with rheumatoid arthritis. Pain treatment centers are available for those experiencing severe pain from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Pain residential programs have been proven very effective and have helped many in the recovery process.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

This problem can last for many years, with symptoms which can flare up and disappear at a moment’s notice. Inflammation of the joints in the hand and wrist are most popular areas of pain although swelling can also occur in the elbows, knees, hips, ankles, and neck, among others. The following are many popular symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis:

  • Swelling in and around the joints
  • Redness
  • Stiffness (typically in the morning)
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Warmth
  • Loss of joint shape (deformity)
  • Tenderness
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Feeling sick
  • Inflammation of the body’s organs
  • Weakening of muscles
  • Tiredness
  • Rheumatoid nodules (lumps of tissue)
  • Anemia
  • Symmetrical joints affected
  • Fever
  • Lack of hunger
  • Poor energy
  • Dryness in the mouth and eyes (Sjogren’s syndrome)
  • Osteoporosis
  • Complications of the heart
  • Weight loss

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can be very painful and time-demanding. If you or a loved one suffer from this form of arthritis, or experience another form of pain, seeking pain treatment from one of the many pain rehab facilities may be beneficial.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Although there are many contributors to rheumatoid arthritis, the exact cause is unknown. Contributors include:

  • Genetics
  • Changes in the body’s hormones
  • Infection
  • Environmental factors
  • Gender
  • Chemicals

If you are one of the many sufferers of RA, you may want to consider seeking pain treatment. This form of treatment incorporates therapy, an adequate exercise program, a healthy diet and a number of other programs unique to each pain rehab facility. Call one of these pain programs today to finally find the hope and relief you have been looking for.

Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis

The sooner a person realizes that they have rheumatoid arthritis, the better chance of recovery and reduction of RA’s severe effects. Most of the methods used for managing rheumatoid arthritis are used in pain treatment centers. These treatment facilities for pain have been proven very beneficial in reducing a variety of pain types. Factors which can help reduce the effects and pains associated with rheumatoid arthritis include:

  • Exercise
  • Equipment in the home to make tasks easier
  • Healthy Diet
  • Splints and braces for joints
  • Ointments
  • Therapy
  • Stress & depression management
  • Medicines
  • Surgery
  • Adequate sleep

Disclaimer


This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for medical advice. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and this content is to provide an overall understanding of substance use disorders. These disorders are very complex, and this post does not take into account the unique circumstances for every individual. For specific questions about your health needs or that of a loved one, seek the help of a healthcare professional.