WHAT IS RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
It is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the peripheral joints and the surrounding muscles. The cause is unknown but it’s linked to an autoimmune disease. It is most common in females than males, between the ages of 25- 60 yrs.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS?
Loss of appetite, fatigue, anemia, weight loss, soreness, and stiffness

It is most common in the hands, but can affect the elbow, wrist, hip, and ankle. Joints may feel very hot and tender in the morning. As the disease progresses, deformities can occur: rheumatoid nodules, ulnar deviation (the wrist moves towards the thumb), Swan- Neck, and Boutonniere (see figure.)

DIAGNOSIS

Physicians diagnose RA by symptoms, medical history, x-rays, positive rheumatoid factors (an antibody found in the blood.)

TREATMENT

● Rest
● Physical Therapy and/or Occupational
● TherapyAnti-inflammatory medications
● Corticosteroids to help reduce joint pain
● Patient education on energy conservation

References

www.health.allrefer.com