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Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is
a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly
assaults the lining of healthy joints, leading to ongoing inflammation and
gradual destruction. Unlike the usual wear-and-tear arthritis, RA can
impact several joints in a symmetrical fashion and can also involve other
organs such as the skin, lungs, eyes, heart, and blood vessels.
Symptoms:
Common symptoms are joint discomfort, oedema, warmth, soreness and prolonged
morning stiffness. The disease often affects the hands, wrists, feet,
knees, and ankles. The disease often affects the hands, wrists, feet, knees,
and ankles. Sometimes, patients experience fatigue, poor appetite, weakness,
and fever. Symptoms may swing between active inflammation and relative
improvement. If not treated properly, persistent inflammation can lead to cartilage
damage, bone erosion, deformity, and decreased mobility.
Diagnosis is made on
clinical examination and blood tests, such as rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic
citrullinated peptide antibodies; inflammatory markers; and imaging, if
required. It is crucial. Seeing a specialist early is crucial because no single
test can detect every instance. It is crucial to see a specialist early because
no single test can detect every instance of the condition.
Treatment aims to
manage inflammation, avoid damage to the joints, and maintain physical function.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic medications, biologic medicines,
and targeted treatments are important components of the treatment plan. Pain
management, physiotherapy, regular physical activity, and
lifestyle modifications may be advised. Early identification and regular
therapy considerably improve the long-term outlook and allow people to remain
active and independent.