Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disorder of joints that gives rise to inflammation, pain, swelling, stiffness and limitation in the movement. This disorder mostly affects the smaller joints including those of wrists, knees, feet, hands, elbows and ankles as well as large joints such as hips, shoulders and jaw. In addition to that, it can affect other organs and systems such as musculoskeletal structures, skin, heart, lungs, digestive tract, kidneys, blood vessels, blood, eyes and nervous system. Rheumatoid arthritis is most frequently found in women than in men. It affects all races, ages and social and ethnic groups. The people between the age group of 35-50 years are likely more susceptible to this disease. However, the teenagers, children and elderly people may be affected by this disorder which is known as the juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the autoimmune disease in which the immune system produces specialized chemicals and cells that start to attack the body tissues when released into the bloodstream. This immune response leads to abnormal growth and inflammation in the synovium which is known as synovitis. As it spreads inside and outside the joint, it may damage the cartilage of the joint and bone as well as surrounding tissues including nerves, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels.
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known. But, many factors are supposed to be involved in the abnormal response of the immune system that can cause this disease. The main possible causes are hormones, genetics (heredity) and bacterial or viral infections.
The most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are inflammation, warmth, tenderness, redness, swelling, stiffness and pain in joints. These symptoms may be accompanied by the general symptoms like malaise, fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, weight loss and myalgias.
Generally, the diagnosis is based on the symptoms, physical examination, the imaging tests including x-rays, MRI scan and ultrasound and some laboratory tests. The lab tests like complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, determination of electrolyte levels and immunologic tests like determination of the levels of antinuclear antibodies, rheumatoid factor and other antibodies.
Various treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis include medications, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, relaxation therapy, heat and cold treatment, occupational therapy and prosorba column. The surgical options of treatment include tendon repairs, removal of damaged synovium and replacement of severely damaged joints. The treatment is meant for reducing inflammation, reliving pain and preventing joint damage and disability.
