Living with rheumatoid arthritis can be a tough experience and can be incredibly difficult. This would mean making changes to their lifestyle in terms of education, exercise, diet changes, and assistive devices to help them stay active. If you live with rheumatoid arthritis it is also very important that you determine what this illness is all about.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints. It is a disease that causes pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function of your joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can last for years, and patients may experience long periods without symptoms. This is typically a progressive disease that has the potential to cause joint destruction and functional disability.
Research says and most doctors concur that the cause of rheumatoid arthritis remains obscure. However, it is believed that rheumatoid arthritis maybe developed inherently or because of environmental factors.
Usually, people who will most likely have arthritis symptoms include:
- Constant joint pain
- Inflammation as indicated by joint swelling, stiffness and redness.
- Pain or tenderness in a joint that is triggered by any movement or activity
- Joint deformity
- Loss of range of motion or flexibility in a joint
- Unexplained weight loss
- fatigue, lack of energy, weakness or a feeling of depression
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease for which there is no known cure, but has treatment options. Treatment options aims to control the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis and minimize joint damage. It intends to achieve the lowest arthritis disease control activities and reduce pain. It helps patients maintain choice of life and ability to function. Treatment options may include medications, non-drug therapies and sometimes may imply surgical options.
Thus, to live with arthritis, it is very important to take care of a fit diet, right and approved exercise and adequate sleep.
