Rheumatoid Arthritis
One of the more debilitating health conditions, rheumatoid arthritis is endured by countless millions worldwide and its cause is not completely understood. Its symptoms are similar to other forms of arthritis and the pain associated with this disease can be excruciating. The disease itself is not life-threatening but causes a loss of ambulatory control and makes using the joints difficult.
Symptoms And Diagnosis
Rheumatoid arthritis can afflict anyone at any age but primarily strikes adults. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with this condition than men, and people over the age of 70 are sometimes afflicted with this disease. Symptoms include noticeable swelling in the bone joints, especially in the knees, elbows and wrists. The muscles in the nearby vicinity become stiff and there is a loss of motor control which makes movement of the joints nearly impossible at times. Fatigue, fever and difficulty maintaining concentration are also experienced by those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment Options
Doctors often prescribe medications to reduce swelling and put their patient on an exercise routine intended to loosen the muscles and make for easier movements around the joints. The pain experienced by those with rheumatoid arthritis is usually sharp and acute, located in the joints themselves and is treated through the use of prescription drugs including analgesics. These medications alter the pain-sensing capability of the nerves and inhibits the transmitting of information to the brain, offering temporary relief from pain and allowing relaxation of the muscles themselves.
Rheumatoid arthritis is one of only many reasons people may feel pain or experience swelling in the joints. A thorough examination by a health professional is needed to determine the exact cause and to prescribe the appropriate treatment.