Feb. 18, 2019 | Approximately 1.3 million adults in the United States suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes swelling as well as pain, stiffness and loss of function in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, occurs in all races and ethnic groups. Although the disease often begins in individuals of childbearing age and occurs with increased frequency in older people, children and young adults can also develop it. Like some other forms of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis occurs much more frequently in women than in men. But unlike other forms of arthritis, RA causes joint swelling in a symmetrical pattern, meaning that if one knee or hand is swollen, the other is also. The disease often affects the wrist joints and knuckles closest but it can also affect other parts of the body. When someone has rheumatoid arthritis, the tissues that line the joint become inflamed and the surrounding cartilage and bone become damaged.

Feb. 18, 2019 | Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a result of your immune system attacking healthy cells in your joint by mistake, causing painful swelling in the affected parts of the body. Its exact cause is unknown, although scientists believe your genetic history, environment or your hormones might contribute to your chances of developing the disease. The symptoms can improve or worsen at times. Besides the usual swelling at the joints, RA can cause you to feel fatigued, making it difficult for you to complete even the most basic everyday tasks. Approximately one out of four patients with rheumatoid arthritis will develop nodules, small bumps that grow under the skin, frequently close to the joints. Because the disease can cause inflammation in many body parts, like the tissues surrounding your heart or your lungs, you should see a physician as soon as possible if you develop chest pain or a cough that will not go away.

Feb. 18, 2019 | Rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed based on the presence of joint swelling or certain X-ray abnormalities. After these are identified, special lab tests will confirm the diagnosis. Diagnosing and treating RA early, within six months of the joint swelling, is important to minimize the damage. Doctors who specialize in arthritis are called rheumatologists, and they can help diagnose the patient correctly and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDS, may slightly reduce inflammation in mild cases of RA but are usually used for pain relief. The primary method of treatment are medications, both oral and injectable, that modify and in some cases weaken the immune system and decrease the joint swelling and pain. If the joint is severely damaged, the patient may need surgery performed by an orthopedic surgeon to restore the joint’s function and relieve persistent pain.

Feb. 18, 2019 | Juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or JIA, refers to several types of arthritis affecting children 16 years of age or younger. The term idiopathic means “of unknown origin.” This form of arthritis affects nearly 300,000 children in the United States. Patients with JIA typically experience joint swelling, pain and loss of function in the joint. The type of JIA determines which joints are affected. One early sign of JIA may be limping or refusal to stand or walk. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis, these symptoms may periodically improve or worsen. JIA can also cause growth problems and eye inflammation in some children. A healthy immune system fights off invader like viruses and bacteria. JIA occurs because the immune system mistakenly attacks the normal cells in the joint, causing painful swelling. Fortunately, JIA is not contagious. Medicines and physical therapy can help maintain movement and reduce swelling, pain and joint damage.

Feb. 18, 2019 | Living with rheumatoid arthritis is difficult but not impossible. Dr. Seth Berney, director of the Division of Rheumatology at UAMS, urges those struggling with RA to maintain an active lifestyle, exercising at least 30 minutes a day five days a week. Walking, swimming or biking are all good options and can also reduce the risk of developing other chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and depression. Losing weight is also important, says Dr. Berney, because obesity can worsen the joint pain and cause additional problems for patients. It’s also a good idea to reduce the stress on your joints so consider using a cane to walk or a grabbing tool to pick up items. Rheumatoid arthritis is a lifelong disease that not only affects the joints but can increase the risk of cancer, heart attacks and strokes. It is important to see a doctor as soon as the symptoms begin so you undergo a proper evaluation and start the appropriate therapy.