DoctorOnCall.com.my FEATURE ARTICLE
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) can happen to anyone these days. It is the second most common form of autoimmune arthritis of which, to this day, the causes are still unknown.
Why Would it Consider as Autoimmune Condition?
Autoimmune disease causes the body to mistakenly attack healthy tissue rather than protecting them from foreign bodies. But in case of RA, the autoimmune condition causes the joint to be inflamed. In a normal setting, inflammation usually resolves quickly, yet in RA, the condition becomes a long-term (chronic) process.
Can Anyone Really Get Rheumatoid Arthritis?
In some evidence, lifestyle can be a contributing factor in developing rheumatoid arthritis. Research shows people who smoke, consume a lot of red meat and coffee-drinkers are those who have the tendency to have RA. However, RA can start at any age yet it most commonly starts between the ages of 30 and 50. In case of gender prevalence, women are three times more likely than men to have RA. If your parents already have RA, chances are you may inherit the genes of developing RA, however, that factor alone is not enough to cause it.
How Do I Know if These Symptoms are RA?
It can be difficult to detect and diagnose RA as it often presents itself similarly to other arthritic diseases. The symptoms it presented may vary in every individual and most of them may either experience few or no symptoms for a long period of time, while others may feel it for months at a time. Earliest sign of RA typically appear in the smallest joints such as fingers and toes and later on progresses to bigger joints.
Should I be Worried if I have RA?
Having RA can affect every individual differently in terms of psychologically or emotionally. You may find, due to RA symptoms, your daily activities becomes affected. So much limitations on movements you have to endure because of the pain occur after sitting for some time. Going for physiotherapy sessions can help you manage your pain and movements. It is a part of the treatment plan for the sake of achieving better quality of life.
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