Khaberni - Doctors warn of a common chronic disease that attacks the body from the inside, affecting millions of people worldwide, confirming that some daily habits may contribute to significantly exacerbating its symptoms.
Rheumatoid arthritis (Rheumatoid Arthritis – RA) is one of the autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to painful swelling and chronic stiffness, especially in the morning. Estimates suggest that between 1.3 and1.5 million people in the United States alone suffer from this chronic inflammatory condition, according to the "New York Post".
The impact of rheumatoid arthritis is not limited to the joints but may also affect other organs in the body, such as the eyes, blood vessels, nerves, skin, and even the heart and lungs. In some cases, autoimmune inflammation can lead to pulmonary fibrosis, known as interstitial lung disease.
Who is most at risk?
The disease usually appears between the ages of forty and sixty, though it can be diagnosed at other ages. Women are about two to three times more likely to be affected than men, and this is linked with hormonal changes post-pregnancy or during menopause. The exact cause of the disease remains unknown, but genetic factors and family history, along with environmental factors and habits like smoking, may increase the risk of infection.
Most common symptoms
The disease typically begins in the small joints of the hands, feet, and wrists, especially the middle finger joints and the areas where the toes meet the foot.
Due to its symmetrical nature, it often affects the same joints on both sides of the body.
Classic symptoms include joint pain and swelling, along with morning stiffness that may last for more than 45 minutes, which is a distinctive sign of autoimmune joint inflammation, and patients may also suffer from general fatigue, weight loss, and muscle pain.
A daily habit that exacerbates the disease
Doctors pointed out that neglecting oral hygiene may contribute to exacerbating the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, as severe gum diseases allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, leading to an increase in overall inflammation, which is a primary factor behind the symptoms and complications of the disease.
Diagnosis and treatment
Doctors emphasize the importance of distinguishing between rheumatoid arthritis and other types of joint pain, such as osteoarthritis, which differ in nature and duration of accompanying morning stiffness. A clinical examination, along with radiology and laboratory tests, helps achieve an accurate diagnosis.
Regarding treatment, recent years have seen significant advancements in the treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis, allowing patients to enjoy a more active life.
Treatments include medications that reduce immune system activity and lessen inflammation, either through tablets or injections, with regular follow-up every few months to monitor the response to treatment.
Doctors warn that neglecting treatment can lead to erosion of bones and cartilage, as well as increased risk of heart diseases, due to chronic inflammation, emphasizing that early diagnosis"cf0"> and appropriate treatment greatly contribute to improving the quality of life of patients.
