Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune condition that results in the inflammation of joints that can cause discomfort, pain, and mobility issues. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is usually the result of wear and tear over time, rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the immune system attacking the body’s tissues by mistake, causing the effects of the condition with stiffness and inflammation.
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment is crucial to help reduce the painful effects and work towards regaining comfort and mobility.
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
While the direct cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, it’s more than likely a combination of different factors such as genetics, hormones, and even environmental effects.
Since it’s an autoimmune condition, it’s the immune system mistakenly attacking the lining of the membranes that surround the joints, when usually the immune system protects the body by attacking infections. Environmental factors such as exposure to asbestos or silica, smoking, and even some infections can contribute to developing rheumatoid arthritis, as well as specific genetic markers that can increase susceptibility.
Hormonal changes to the body, such as pregnancy or menopause, can be contributing factors to developing rheumatoid arthritis.
The Effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the joints, but if it’s left untreated, it could lead to further complications with other parts of your body. The onset of the condition will lead to stiffness in the joints, resulting in inflammation, discomfort, and even pain. Due to the importance of joint fluidity, mobility will be greatly affected.
While treatment can help hinder the effects of rheumatoid arthritis, and help increase comfort and mobility, it won’t cure the condition. However, if left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can result in dryness of the eyes, potential lung disease, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and even lymphoma.
How Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Can Help
Treatment is the best way to stave off the effects and regain comfort and mobility. Since there is no cure, there are a few combinations of treatments and methods to help reduce the severity of swelling and pain.
There are a few medications that can be prescribed by a rheumatologist that can help alleviate the discomfort and help you manage your daily life. Physical therapy can also have a positive effect with helping you control your movements and finding ways to gain mobility while reducing pain and discomfort.
Lifestyle adjustments may be necessary to help you treat your rheumatoid arthritis. Consuming anti-inflammatory foods, cutting out tobacco and alcohol consumption, and maintaining a degree of physical activity can help reduce the effects of the condition.
Find Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Whether you’re experiencing discomfort in your joints and need to be diagnosed, or you are simply seeking treatment from a rheumatologist, you can looks to us at Arthritis & Osteoporosis Associates.
We’re here to effectively diagnose your condition and develop the right treatment to help you reduce pain and inflammation. Our practitioners treat the patient, not the condition, so when you’re a patient of ours, you’re in the best hands around.
Find relief and schedule your visit with us today!
*It’s recommended that you consult with your primary care professional before seeking treatment for your condition.
