Basics of Rheumatoid arthritis

The inflamed joints of rheumatoid arthritis can even cause the simplest movements to be difficult and painful. This chronic inflammatory condition can begin at any age but most often appears between the ages of 20 to 40.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disorder in which the cartilage and tissues in and around the joints become inflamed and damaged. Scar tissue replaces the damaged tissue, narrowing the spaces in the joints and limiting movement. Some people experience only mild joint stiffness, punctuated by periodic inflammatory flare-ups. In others, however, symptoms are persistent and worsen overtime, causing deformities of the hands and feet. Furthermore, in very severe cases, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the heart, lungs, muscles and skin.

Symptoms:

Early signs:

• Fatigue; weakness; weight loss; low grade fever; and joint stiffness (often in the morning), followed several weeks later by joint pain and inflammation.

• Red, painful, swollen joints that may be warm to the touch. Typically affects the wrists, fingers, knees, ankles and feet, on both sides of the body.

• Painless red lumps (nodules) on the elbows, ears, nose, knees, toes or scalp.

Long term effects:

• Chest pain, breathing difficulties

• Joints that become shapeless, bent or gnarled.

Call a doctor when early symptoms of the disease appear, or when new symptoms appear.

What one can do?

• Take onto a gentle, non weight bearing exercise, such as swimming.

• Try physical therapy; Massage, heat or cold packs may help too.

• Get plenty of rest – 10 to 12 hours or more a night if needed.

• Many arthritis suffers find ginger tea a refreshing way to reduce joint inflammation.

• Regular consumption of fish oil supplements promotes fewer tender joints and less morning stiffness.