Rheumatoid arthritis affects people in different ways. Some have only mild symptoms, while others become disabled. Early diagnosis is important, because starting treatment in the early stages of the disease may help delay or prevent disability. Those diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis have several options for managing the disease.
Identification
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disease, meaning one in which the body attacks itself. As the Mayo Clinic explains, the disease involves damage to the synovial lining of the joint, which can lead to inflammation, pain, stiffness and even destruction of the joint. This form of arthritis tends to affect both sides of the body equally. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause fevers, fatigue and damage to the heart, eyes and other systems of the body. It is a chronic condition that currently has no cure.
Diagnosis
The process of diagnosing RA includes a physical exam for signs of joint swelling and tenderness that are common with this condition. Patients also undergo blood tests and fluid aspiration from the joint to test for substances that indicate an overactive immune system. Doctors sometimes use X-rays, MRIs and other scans to diagnose RA. After a diagnosis is made, these tests are repeated regularly to determine how well the treatment is working.
Considerations
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis must actively manage their condition. This includes resting when needed, getting regular exercise to keep the joints and muscles strong and flexible, learning how to protect the joints from further injury and eating a healthy diet, explains the American College of Rheumatology. Losing excess weight will help by taking pressure off painful joints. In some cases, patients may need medication. When treatment is started in the early stages of the disease, it's possible to have a full and active life despite having RA.
Surgery
Rheumatoid arthritis does not necessarily have to lead to disability. Along with medication, surgery is an option in severe cases. The Arthritis Foundation notes that surgical procedures for RA include total joint replacement; a synovectomy, which removes the part of the joint lining that is damaged; arthroscopic surgery, which can repair minor tears and damage to the joint; or joint fusion techniques in cases involving deformity and severe pain.
Alternative Treatments
Some patients who still have symptoms after taking conventional medical approaches may seek out alternative medicine options. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Therapies warns that alternative medicine should never replace conventional medicine, but instead should be used alongside it with a physician's knowledge.
While much more research is needed to confirm the usefulness of such approaches, patients with RA may benefit from relaxation techniques and movement therapies such as meditation, yoga and tai chi. Gentle movement can help improve functioning and relieve stiff joints. Learning to relax may help patients control stress and fight the depression that can come with a diagnosis of a chronic condition.
In addition, fish oil, gamma-linolenic acid and the herb thunder god vine may be helpful as long as they are taken under a doctor's supervision to avoid interactions with other medications.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Rheumatoid Arthritis Definition
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
- American College of Rheumatology: Living Well with a Rheumatic Disease
- Arthritis Foundation: Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Options
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Therapies: Rheumatoid Arthritis
