Rheumatoid Arthritis

There are several symptoms which can develop, due to Rheumatoid Arthritis [RA]. A common signs, most people are aware of, is the swelling in joints and tendons. RA usually affects multiple areas, most often, the hands, knees, feet, shoulders and spine.

The condition can not only cause extreme pain, if and when the condition worsens, but can ultimately become disabling. Symptoms can become chronic, and the disease can cause serious damage to tissues and tendons, seriously affecting mobility. Even causing anaemia and other highly problematic medical conditions. Including inflammation of the lungs, and the placenta type sac which holds the heart, known as the pericardium. Other problems can also arise, with regards to the eyes. Initially, your medical physician will be able to diagnose the condition, not only on the visual signs, but with blood tests and, or x-rays. A specific blood test is usually carried out first, testing for a type of antibody which appears in those suffering from the disease.

If the disease is in the early stages, for example, has been developing for less than a year, this test will often have a negative result. Known as 'sero negative'. This does not mean the patient is not suffering from RA. Usually, the disease builds over time, meaning, eventually, the patient will show as 'sero positive' as the RA progresses. Because this particular test can be illusive, a new, more accurate test has been developed by researchers. Now being used more frequently, due to more accurate results, although again, not one hundred percent in the early stages of RA. This test measures the ACAPA's [Anti Citrullinated Protein Antibodies] Usually, a series of other blood tests are also carried out, to define if there might be other medical reasons for the onset of the disease. Once diagnosis has been proven positive, a Rheumatologist will normally be assigned to the patient, to aid with long term management and treatment. A Rheumatologist is a trained specialist in all diseases connected with the joints, tendons and connective tissues.

Initially, anti inflammatory, painkillers and steroids might be prescribed. Normally to suppress and control the development of the disease. Much depends on the seriousness of the condition. Occupational and physiotherapy might also be considered a necessary and suitable 'drug free' treatment. If the RA is considered more serious, 'Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs will be prescribed. Highly effective at preventing damage on a long term basis. New research is introducing newer, biological drug treatments all the time. In the long term, the disease can cripple joints, however, it can also affect various vital organs in the body too. True for almost a quarter of sufferers. Sometime these problems are caused by the drugs used to treat the Rheumatoid Arthritis. Therefore, wherever possible, natural treatments are preferable.