Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is caused by an overactive immune system. When a person develops this autoimmune disease, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, which can lead to severe pain and loss of mobility.
The main manifestation of the disease is pain and swelling in the joints, especially the fingers. Symmetrical lesions of the small joints of the hands and feet are characteristic. With movements and at rest, the pain increases, morning stiffness, swelling, dysfunction of the joints are observed.
However, among the signs of rheumatoid arthritis are not only problems with the joints.
So, this condition can lead to loss weight. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, and weakness, along with typical symptoms such as:
- Pain or aches
- Stiffness
- Soreness and swelling.
The specific causes of RA are not yet known, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. For example, numerous studies show that smoking increases the risk of developing RA, as does obesity.
And if these two factors can be changed and improve the prognosis (quit smoking and lose weight), then this cannot be done with a hereditary predisposition. In this case, people inherit human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II genotypes and are at greater risk of RA.
“The risk of RA can be especially high when people with these genes are exposed to additional factors, such as smoking or obesity,” experts emphasize.
The sooner treatment is started, the greater the chance of significantly slowing down the disease. Otherwise, there will be further damage to the bones, tendons, ligaments and cartilage adjacent to the focus of inflammation.
If rheumatoid arthritis is left untreated, serious problems can develop. For example, carpal tunnel syndrome, in which the median nerve is compressed, resulting in pain, numbness, or tingling in the hand. RA can lead to further inflammation in the blood vessels, lungs, heart and eyes.
Rheumatoid arthritis can result in pulmonary fibrosis, pericarditis, vasculitis, cardiovascular disease.
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Important! This information is provided for reference only. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first sign of illness, consult a doctor.