Posted in Category : Bone, Joint & Muscles Disorders | May 26, 2008

There are various different causes for rheumatoid arthritis disorder. As rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive inflammatory disease of joints, this condition continues to worsen unless the inflammation is slowed or stopped. It affects the joints of several body parts as well as functioning of some other organs. It may result in limitation in mobility of the joints and makes the daily activities difficult. Hence, rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis is the most essential step to start the treatment immediately. For effective diagnosis, finding causes of rheumatoid arthritis disorder is very important.

Since it is an autoimmune disease, it is caused by the activity of immune system, which mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues resulting in inflammation of the joints. Some possible causes of rheumatoid arthritis are hormones, genetic factors, environmental factors and bacterial or viral infections. It is believed that certain hormonal factors are involved in the development of this disease. The deficiencies or changes in these hormones may trigger rheumatoid arthritis condition. Some dietary factors are among the important causes of rheumatoid arthritis. Lower intake of vegetables and fruits containing vitamin C and higher intake of caffeine and protein may increase the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Prolonged exposure to infectious agents like bacteria or viruses is also one of the significant causes of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis disorder is a progressive disease that can easily affect other organs and systems in the body including skin, heart, lungs, digestive tract, kidneys, blood vessels, blood, eyes and nervous system. In rheumatoid arthritis, pain in the joints results from various sources. It may be due to swelling or inflammation of the joints as well as surrounding tissues. Excess physical activities or strain on the joints also can lead to pain. The intensity of pain differs person to person. There is limitation in the mobility of the joint.

Inflammation is one of the most significant rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Tenderness, redness and warmth are the characteristics of inflammation. The stiffness is another remarkable symptom, which is frequently noticed.

A combination of treatment strategies is used to relieve swelling and pain in the joints, to maintain the motion and strength and to prevent further complications. Various options available for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis disorder include the medications, different therapies and surgical options. Different types of medications are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis on primary level. Joint replacement surgery is one of the options for rheumatoid arthritis. The non-drug approaches include hydrotherapy, physical therapy, relaxation therapy, occupational therapy, heat and cold treatments.

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