Arthritis and Its Affects

At a very young age I was diagnosed with Junior Rheumatoid Arthritis, now as an adult it is called Rhematiod Arthritis. I now have had both hips and both knees replaced due to the deforming effects of RA.

If you are not sure of the pain you are experiencing check with a medical doctor. Prompt attention to Arthritis is Key to keeping from damaging effects.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis or RA?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory illness; it is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks normal tissue. This affects about one percent of the world's population. The inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis primarily attacks the linings of the joints.

RA usually comes on over a period of a few months. However for some, the disease may appear over night. Rapid onset does not mean the individual is at greater risk of disease progression.
Rheumatoid arthritis may have different affects on different people. Some individuals may experience extreme pain while others may not. Patients often suffer cycles of severe and light symptoms.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Some of the most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are:

• Joint swelling. Especially in the small joints of the hands and feet.
• Joint tenderness, stiffness, and pain. Especially in the morning.
• Tiredness

Women suffer from it two to three times more than men.
Relatives of people with rheumatoid arthritis have an increased risk of developing the disease. The siblings of severely affected people with rheumatoid arthritis are at highest risk.

How is Rheumatoid Arthritis diagnosed?

A series if Blood work and urinalysis