The main symptom of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is inflammation—redness, heat, and pain—at the joints. RA affects the joint membranes, cartilage, and bones, the way OA does. But, unlike OA, RA can also affect the whole body—with loss of appetite, a general feeling of being unwell, and other symptoms. No one knows exactly what causes RA, but it may be caused by the immune system (the body’s defenses) turning against the body.
RA takes very different forms in different people. Some people have only a mild form of RA that does not get more severe. Others go on to develop severe deformities of the joints. Most people with RA fall somewhere in between.
RA is usually first noticed in the small joints of the hands, feet, and wrists. It may then move on to the larger joints – elbows, shoulders, and knees. As RA gets worse, the joints can become deformed and too stiff to move.
Rest is often very helpful when there is a flare-up of RA, but too much rest can do more harm than good—especially in older people.
Some people have more stiffness after resting than after activity. Physical therapy and exercise directed by a healthcare professional can help a person with RA keep the ability to move for as long as possible.
RA affects about 1 in every 100 people. It affects women 3 times more often than men. The people most likely to develop RA are those between the ages of 35 and 50.
Resource: 1998 Searle
Additional Resources: Pain-Free Arthritis, McIlwain, Bruce, Henry Holt & Co. 2003
*The purpose of this page and linked pages is to answer common questions for health problems as well as to present unique ideas towards taking care of your health. The ideas, procedures and suggestions are not intended as a substitute from the medical advice of a trained health professional. All matters regarding our health require medical supervision. Consult your physician before adopting the suggestions in this book, as well as about any condition that may require diagnosis or medical attention. The authors disclaim an liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of techniques described here.
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