Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease, which means that the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body by mistake, causing inflammation in the affected parts. RA primarily targets the joints, often impacting several joints simultaneously, with common sites being the hands, wrists, and knees. This chronic inflammatory disorder can extend beyond the joints, potentially damaging a variety of body systems including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative wear-and-tear condition, RA is an autoimmune inflammatory disease.
Managing RA involves a combination of treatments, which may include applying cold compresses to reduce joint inflammation, using a heat pad before bedtime, or taking a warm shower or bath to ease discomfort. The decision to continue or adjust medication can be particularly challenging for women with RA who are planning pregnancy. Treatment aims to halt disease progression, control symptoms, and prevent joint damage. Patients often describe the onset of symptoms as gradual, with joint pain and fatigue being common complaints.
For more detailed information on rheumatoid arthritis, its symptoms, and treatment options, visit the following resources:
CDC,
WebMD,
Mayo Clinic,
and
HealthCentral.
To learn more about the impact of RA on sleep and for tips on achieving better rest, read the article at
Healthline.
Discover recent research on RA, including the discussion on medication use during pregnancy, at
ScienceDaily.
An overview of RA disease progression can be found at
Everyday Health.
