Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease which potentially impacts human daily lives. It usually begins as a mild condition but gradually it can lead to severe joint pains and rigidity. It is necessary to understand how to detect the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis as early diagnosis will positively save the patient’s life.

In this article, we will explore what rheumatoid arthritis is, its causes, and a possible cure and practical ways of dealing with it.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease whereby the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, mainly the synovial membranes and joints. It results in inflammation, swelling, and pain, usually in the body joints and soles of the feet. If not treated, RA can lead to long-term joint deformities and also affect other bodily organs.

Reactive Arthritis vs Rheumatoid Arthritis

Although RA is an autoimmune and multifactorial disease, the causes of RA and reactive arthritis differ in many ways. Reactive arthritis develops as a result of an infection, which is usually in the genitourinary or gastrointestinal tract. It is advisable to differentiate between both of them for appropriate management.

What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Knowing what causes RA is important in controlling the advancement of the disease. Like other autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis is caused by inherited susceptibility and numerous exposures, including smoking, infections, or hormonal influences. Early detection can assist in limiting the progression of this disease to the everyday functioning of individuals.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Back Pain

Though RA affects the peripheral joint, it often involves back pain in some instances. Sacroiliac joint or spinal inflammation leads to Rheumatoid arthritis back pain. Such pain calls for specialised management to avert future complications or distressing conditions.

Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

It is therefore important to pay more attention torheumatoid arthritis initial symptoms. These symptoms develop gradually and get worse over weeks to months.

Early Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Continuous joint pain with tenderness.
• Stiffness lasting more than an hour.
• Fatigue and low-grade fever.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms in Hands

• Knuckles swelling and pain.
• Reduced grip strength.
• Severe cases may show visible deformities.

Rheumatoid Arthritis in Legs Symptoms

• Pain & swelling in the knees, ankles, and feet.
• Difficulty walking and standing.

Symptoms of High Rheumatoid Factor

• Prolonged joint pain and stiffness.
• Higher level of inflammation markers in blood tests.

Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

• Joint inflammation, similar to typical RA, but without the presence of RF in the blood serum.
• Pain and inflammation in the minor joints.

Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA occurs in various forms and should be managed differently. Here are the types

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis with Rheumatoid Factor: Positive, elevated rheumatoid factor, usually accompanied by severe joint pains.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis with Negative Rheumatoid Factor: Although clinical signs of rheumatoid arthritis are present, there can be no positive results for the rheumatoid factor in the blood test.

3. Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis: It is similar to Rheumatoid Arthritis but lacks traditional markers.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Is There a Cure?

A common question among arthritis patients is whether rheumatoid arthritis can be cured. But the answer is, that there is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, treatment has improved to the extent of having remission with the chances of decreasing the symptoms.

Remedies for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Treating rheumatoid arthritis requires a combination of medicines, changes in lifestyles, and natural therapies.

1. Medical Treatments

• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can work for mild conditions.
• Biological therapies targeting the immune system will work for critical conditions.
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications for early signs

2. Natural Remedies for Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Doing regular exercise to maintain joint flexibility.
• Taking anti-inflammatory diets – rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Practising stress management techniques like yoga or meditation.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments

• Using ergonomic tools to reduce strain/pain on joints.
• Following heat or cold therapy for pain relief.
• Taking adequate rest and sleep to reduce fatigue.

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Ready for the Recovery Process?

Physical therapy for patients with cervical spine fracture or any vertebral spine fracture may take a long period. Still, if treated properly with a proper pain management regime and surgical treatments, it is easy to mobilise and function normally again. It is always advisable to seek the opinion of spine specialists to go with the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

Consult Indospine now, and we will facilitate faster recovery of your spine fracture!