Rheumatoid Arthritis
Statistics show that around 1 percent of the world population suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and women are prone to it three times more than men. It is a chronic systemic inflammatory disorder, where the immune system begins to attack one’s tissues, resulting in pain, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints. Its cause is still unidentified even though research asserts that genes, hormones and the environment may contribute to it.
Symptoms
Though rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease-causing tissue inflammation- that may last many years, its symptoms may ebb and resurface over time. When the disease is active, symptoms such as fatigue, loss of energy, lack of appetite, low-grade fever, muscle and joint aches, and stiffness may surface. An appointment with a medical practitioner and tests will help the person suffering from such symptoms to ascertain whether he or she is suffering from the disease.
Management
Despite having no known cure for it, rheumatoid arthritis may be treated with steroids and biologics to reduce the symptoms of joint inflammation and pain, as well as to maximize joint function and prevent joint destruction and deformity. Early medical intervention is important for better outcomes.