Medical Services

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A chronic autoimmune illness mostly affecting the joints, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes inflammation, discomfort, and stiffness. Unlike wear-and-tear-related osteoarthritis, RA develops from the immune system wrongly attacking the synovial lining of joints, leading to progressive damage. It can eventually impact the heart, lungs, eyes, and other organs.
Although the precise cause of RA is still unknown, hormone imbalances, environmental triggers, and hereditary elements could help explain its emergence. Typical complaints are swollen and sore joints, morning stiffness lasting more than one hour, tiredness, and limited mobility. Severe forms of RA might result in joint abnormalities and handicap.
Prevention of long-term consequences depends on early diagnosis. Physical tests, imaging scans, and blood tests help verify the illness. Treatment uses disease-modifying antirheumatic medicines (DMARDs), biologics, and anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals to slow down disease development and regulate symptoms. Additionally critical for controlling RA are physical therapy, a balanced diet, and frequent exercise.
Medical research keeps developing to provide better outcomes for patients by means of improved therapy alternatives. Those with RA can keep mobility and enhance their quality of life by means of appropriate care and lifestyle changes.