Rheumatoid Arthritis

It is not known exactly what causes rheumatoid arthritis, and it can only be diagnosed with an exam from a doctor. Your primary care physician will most likely send you to an arthritis or rheumatologist for a diagnosis. Rheumatoid arthritis affects adults between the ages of 20 and 50, but some children are diagnosed with the condition. Women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis than men. There is no known cure, but the symptoms can be treated.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint pain and swelling in the joint and surrounding muscle tissue. You may experience a sharp pain or tenderness in the joints, even if the joint is at rest. Most people also experience headaches and fatigue. Joints will be stiff after resting, sitting in one position too long or after sleeping. Joint mobility may be decreased and it will be difficult to bend joints to lift or move.

Diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis

The patient’s overall health and symptoms along with blood tests are needed to make a diagnosis. The doctor will order blood tests to measure inflammation in the body along with what is known as the RA factor. A high RA factor and inflammation alone are not enough for a diagnosis. The patient must also suffer from pain and swelling in the joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

Physical activities and exercise can help patients reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Pain relievers can be used to help reduce pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide relief, but your doctor may prescribe stronger medications. These medications alter how the body feels pain and help the patient get relief.