Rheumatoid Arthritis
Exactly what causes rheumatoid arthritis is not known. It can only be diagnosed after an seeing a doctor and getting a physical examination. Rheumatoid arthritis affects women almost twice as much as it affects men. Most people are diagnosed in adulthood before the age of 50, but children are diagnosed in some rare instances. At this time, there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but medications can be used to treat the symptoms. There are also disease modifying medications that can slow the progression of the disease.
Symptoms Of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have painful joints and inflammation in the joints and the muscle near the joints. Joints are often very painful during movement and at rest. The joints can be visibly swollen and hot or warm to the touch. Most patients will also experience fatigue and headaches. Most joint pain and stiffness occurs after sleeping or when being in one position too long. The patient may have difficulty walking or moving their joints. Mobility is decreased in the affected joints, which can interfere with a person’s job or daily life.
Diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed by a physical examination and blood tests. A primary care physician can diagnose RA, but you will usually be referred to a rheumatologist or an arthritis specialist. The doctor will rule out other conditions, injuries and chemical imbalances. Blood tests will tell the doctor if you are experiencing swelling in your joints or muscles. Another blood test will look for what is called a RA factor. This does not diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, but a high RA factor can help lead to the diagnosis.
Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis
Your doctor will prescribe medication to reduce swelling and relieve your pain. Your doctor may recommend that you exercise to help reduce pain. Pain relievers can are prescribed to reduce the sensation of pain and provide relief.
If you have suffered from join pain, see a doctor for an exam and blood work. Rheumatoid arthritis can be caused by other conditions and is not the only cause for joint pain, and only a doctor make a diagnosis.