Rheumatoid Arthritis
Definition
This is a disease that affects the entire body and is one of the more
common forms of arthritis. It is characterized by inflammation of the
lining of the joint which can invade and damage bone and cartilage.
Parts of the
body that are involved
Joints are involved. The involved joint can lose its shape and alignment.
Usually the same joints on both sides of the body are affected. More
commonly affected joints are: Hands, wrist, feet, knees, ankles, shoulders
and elbows.
Who is affected
The disease usually begins in middle age, but can start at most any
age. Women are affected two to three times more than men.
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain
- Loss of movement of the involved joint
- Inflammation, stiffness, warmth, redness, pain and swelling of the joint
- Lose of shape and alignment of the joint
Causes
The bodyÌs natural immune system does not operate as it should, resulting
in the immune system attacking healthy joint tissue and causing the
above signs and symptoms and joint damage.
*It is important to diagnosis Rheumatoid Arthritis early in the disease. There may be medications that can be given to decrease the joint from damage.
For diagnosis and treatments, make an appointment with you doctor.