Information On Rheumatoid Arthritis, And What To Do With It

Information on rheumatoid arthritis is not particularly useful unless you act on it to try and ease the joint pain and discomfort associated with the condition. In a nutshell, rheumatoid arthritis causes the immune system to launch an attack on certain joints in the body.

Typically, the joints swell, become inflamed and very painful, which in turn can cause loss of mobility. The condition can also affect other parts of the body, such as the heart, the skin, the lungs, the blood vessels and muscles.

The disease is progressive, and as it continues its course, the joints become eroded with the surface gradually being destroyed. This can lead to deformity and considerable loss of mobility. The stiffnes is usually worst in the mornings. But typically, after an hour or so the joint stiffness eases and allows better movement. This is opposite to the effects of osteoarthritis, which usually becomes more painful as the day progresses, due to the continued use of the joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis can start at any age, but most common begins in people who are in the 20 to 40 age group. Family history plays a part, so if either of your parents have it, there is a heightened risk of you developing it also. It occurrs more often in women than in men. Smoking also plays a role, as smokers are four times more likely to develop the disease than non-smokers.

Treating rheumatoid arthritis is usually an ongoing requirement. Remission can be achieved through aggressive and persistent treatment. Exercise has been shown to help considerably, as well as a healthy balanced diet. Evidence suggests that a diet high in fish, fruit, vegetables and olive oil, as well as moderate amounts of wine, especially red wine, can help. However, a diet of this kind is likely to help most conditions and should really be enjoyed by everyone.