“RA”

What is RA? RA is an autoimmune diseases that causes chronic inflammation of the joints and tissue around the joints. This autoimmune disease can affect anyone at any age. Because it can affect multiple other organs of the body RA is a systemic illness and is sometimes called Rheumatoid Disease. Ex./O RA

What Causes RA? The cause of RA is unknown. Even though infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi have long been suspected, none has been proven as the cause. Because the cause is unknown top research facilities have placed RA as one of their top active researches. Ex./O Bacteria

How is RA Diagnosed? There is no singular test for diagnosing RA. Instead, RA is diagnosed based on: presentation of the joints involved, characteristic joint stiffness in the morning, the presence of blood rheumatoid factor, and citrulline antibody – as well as findings of rheumatoid nodules and radiographic changes (X-ray testing). Ex./O X-ray

What are the Symptoms of RA? The symptoms of RA come and go, depending on the degree of tissue inflammation. When the tissue is inflamed the disease is active (vice versa). When the disease is active symptoms may include: fatigue, loss of energy, lack of appetite, fever, aches, and stiffness. When the disease is inactive it causes: painful walking, gout, weakness of bones, hoarseness, limps, and crying. Ex./O Fatigue

How is RA Treated? There is no known cure for RA to date, but there are antibiotics available to reduce pain and swelling: Methotrexate ( Rheumatrex, Trexall) and Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), respectfully. Ex./O Medication

What is the Prognosis for RA? With early, aggressive treatment, the outlook for those affected by RA can be very good. Otherwise, patients may have to deal with day-to-day pain by using medications or mobility aids, such as, wheelchairs or canes. The patient may also have to deal with being self-conscience, for the red-swollen areas may appear swollen or ugly.

How is RA related to the Lymphatic System? The red, swollen, areas are caused, in part, by edema of lymph nodes. RA is a autoimmune disease; this means that it’s the body that attacks itself and the body fails to recognize itself. The confusion is caused by bacteria or viruses, and the lymphocytes fight to protect the body. Ex./O Lymphatic System

Facts & Statistics An estimated 50 million adults in the United States reported being told by a doctor that they have some form of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or fibromyalgia. One in five (22%) adults in the United States report having doctor diagnosed arthritis. By 2030, an estimated 67 million Americans ages 18 years or older are projected to have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

Works Cited WEBMD Medicinenet.com Wikipedia.org Created by Gary.C and Cody.A