Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder. It primarily attacks the synovial joints (the most common joints found in humans) which produces an inflammatory response in the soft tissue that lines the non-cartilaginous surfaces within joints with cavities. This typically affects small joints found in your feet and hands in a symmetrical pattern (both sides of the body are equally affected). A secondary effect is the production of excess synovial fluid and the development of extra tissue in the synovium.

 

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis Video

It’s thought that your body’s autoimmunity plays a large role in the progession of rheumatoid arthritis, but the cause is still largely unknown. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple organs in your body and as such is a systemic illness, although it can also be called rheumatoid disease.

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis come and go depending on wether the tissue is currently inflammed or not. The most common symptoms are; joint pain, joint swelling, joints that are tender to touch, red or puffy hands, firm bumps of tissue under the skin (rheumatoid nodules), morning stiffness that can last for a few hours, fever and weight loss.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 1% of all Australians and affects all races equally. It’s most common in those aged 40 to 60 and women are two to three times more likely to suffer than their male counterparts.

Fortunately medical advancements have increased the treatment options and while it can never be cured patients can experience long periods of remission up to several years and the slowing down of the diseases progression.

It is advised to see a doctor as soon as you notice persistent discomfort & swelling in joints on both sides of your body. Diagnosis is relatively non-invasive and is usually done through blood tests and x-rays. Fortunately medical advancements have increased the treatment options and while it can never be cured patients can experience long periods of remission up to several years and the slowing down of the diseases progression and as such it’s extremely important to visit your local doctor as soon as possible.