What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis, aka RA, is inflammation from the immune system attacking healthy cells in the body where two bones meet. The attack by the body’s immune cells results in pain in the joints and deformities over time. RA occurs all over the body, most notably in the hands and weight-bearing joints such as the spine, knees, and feet.  A medical doctor known as a Rheumatologist will use blood tests and x-rays to diagnose RA. Some signs and symptoms though out the body are weakness,  warm joints, painful stiff joints, and fatigue.

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What are the Risk Factors?

The medical community does not know what causes RA. Below is a list of risk factors. The good news is that some of these factors are avoidable:

• 60 + years old
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Genetics
• Female who has never given birth
• 2nd hand Smoke exposure a Child

What can Decrease the Risk of RA?

If you’re a woman who chooses to give birth, you can decrease your chances of RA by breastfeeding.

Keeping a healthy body weight through diet and exercise. Because your DNA plays a role in getting RA, being overweight and smoking can amplify your chances of developing RA.

What is the Treatment/Cure?

Your RA treatment will be unique to you. Collaborate with your doctor 🩺 to create a treatment goal that’s right for you. A diagnosis of RA is made worse if you also suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes or other cardiovascular disorders. Remember, there is no cure; low disease activity or remission may be possible. Your RA can be managed by using the following:

Medication: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) is a type of medication used to minimize your immune system’s attacks on itself. Over-the-counter pain medication is also used for pain and inflammation control.

Occupational Therapy (OT): An OT can provide treatment for joint protection and range of motion. The OT will work with you to adapt your environment, helping you preserve independence.

Stop Smoking: Seek treatment from a family doctor or smoking sensation program. Cigarette smoke can make the symptoms of RA worse.

Surgery: Surgery may be needed as symptoms progress as a means to retain function.

Managing Obesity: Being active for 30 minutes 3 times a week. An active lifestyle can help keep the weight off. Being overweight puts more stress on arthritic joints, causing you more pain. Water aerobics, swimming, and yoga are highly recommended. Being obese can play diminish the effects of RA medication.

Diet: Avoid highly processed foods, alcohol, saturated fats (solid at room temperature), and red meat. Eating food rich in Omega-3 and turmeric has been shown to reduce the inflammatory symptoms of RA. Check with your Rheumatologist before starting any specific diet or taking supplements. some supplements can affect the medication for RA.

There is currently no cure for RA, be careful of bogus claims that certain herbs or supplements can cure you. Seek out reputable information 

Where should I seek help?

Talk to your family Doctor. They can refer you to a Rheumatologist.

To find a rheumatologist near you, visit the American College of Rheumatology site.  Click find-a-rheumatologist this link will guide you to a rheumatologist in your area.

Remember your journey with RA is unique to you. Find a rheumatologist, ask questions, collaborate on a plan of care, and take action through diet and exercise.