Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) By: Leon Richardson Period

Rheumatoid arthritis RA affects your skeletal system Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term disease that leads to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. It can also affect other organs. The cause of RA is unknown. It is an autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. RA can occur at any age, but is more common in middle age. Women get RA more often than men. Infection, genes, and hormone changes may be linked to the disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms Morning stiffness, which lasts more than 1 hour, is common. Joints may feel warm, tender, and stiff when not used for an hour. Joint pain is often felt on the same joint on both sides of the body. Over time, joints may lose their range of motion and may become deformed. Chest pain when taking a breath (pleurisy) Dry eyes and mouth (Sjogren syndrome) Eye burning, itching, and discharge Nodules under the skin (usually a sign of more severe disease) Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands and feet Sleep difficulties

Tests for RA Rheumatoid factor test Anti-CCP antibody test Complete blood count C-reactive protein Erythrocyte sedimentation rate Joint ultrasound or MRI Joint x-rays Synovial fluid analysis

Prescribed Medications for RA Methotrexate (Rheumatrex) is the most commonly used DMARD for rheumatoid arthritis. Leflunomide (Arava) and chloroquine may also be used. These drugs may have serious side effects, so you will need frequent blood tests when taking them. Anti-inflammatory medications: These include aspirin and nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naprosen. Although NSAIDs work well, long-term use can cause stomach problems, such as ulcers and bleeding, and possible heart problems. Celecoxib (Celebrex) is another anti-inflammatory drug, but it is labeled with strong warnings about heart disease and stroke. Talk to your doctor about whether COX-2 inhibitors are right for you. Antimalarial medications: This group of medicines includes hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), and is usually used along with methotrexate. It may be weeks or months before you see any benefit from these medications. Corticosteroids: These medications work very well to reduce joint swelling and inflammation. Because of long-term side effects, corticosteroids should be taken only for a short time and in low doses when possible.

Surgeries for RA Removal of the joint lining (synovectomy) Total joint replacement in extreme cases; may include total knee, hip replacement, ankle replacement, shoulder replacement, and others

RA Cures There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis.