With knowledge and proper research, you and your physician can seek the proper care to help your arthritis. Being informed will not only keep you more knowledgeable, but ensure your safety. Protect your loved ones today and get informed!
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis
Also known as RA, Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune, inflammatory disease that will affect your joints. It commonly occurs between the ages of 60 and 70. When your body’s immune system isn’t working properly, RA will attack the healthy tissues within the lining of the joints, unintentionally. This will cause swelling of joints, causing them to be harder to use. Other bodily implications may involve your eyes, lungs, and heart. The cause of RA is unclear, but genuinely happens due to genetics and infection that may trigger it.
Treatments of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Prescriptions and treatments can help control the symptoms and reduce pain or swelling. Some drugs you may be prescribed are:
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, or DMARDs, will directly reduce swelling and other symptoms due to Rheumatoid Arthritis.
- nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids or analgesics – these drugs will only treat the pain that comes with Rheumatoid Arthritis.
You are more likely to develop Rheumatoid Arthritis if:
- You are between the ages of 40 and 60.
- You are a woman.
- A close member of your family has rheumatoid arthritis .
- You are a smoke, especially if you have a family history of RA. If you already have RA, smoking may make it more severe.
- You are above your recommended weight for your height and age.
- You’ve been exposed to asbestos.
At Arthritis Clinic of Central Texas our rheumatology health care professionals evaluate your muscle and joint pain to begin a treatment plan. We will gather all the information we can including your family history and your medical records. We aim to provide diagnosis and treatment of such disorders to help alleviate your pain. The treatment will improve joint function and your quality of life after every visit. For more information visit our website at www.arthritisclinicofcentraltexas.com or give us a call at 512.667.7123.