Many people have a hard time defining exactly what rheumatoid arthritis is. It is a common form of arthritis that affects the joints. It normally occurs in small joints such has hands and feet. This article will give a brief description of it and its symptoms, causes and treatments.

This type is one of the most common types of arthritis. It usually occurs on both sides of the body. This is the number one way it is diagnosed. The symmetry of this form is very unique. Besides the joints it is also associated with effects of the skin, eyes, nerves, blood and heart. All types of this crippling disorder occur when joints become inflamed. There are various reasons the joints become inflamed and the inflammation usually leads to intense pain.

The most common symptom is joint swelling or inflammation. Things like stiffness and fatigue are also associated with this type. These symptoms can be continuous or infrequent. Sometimes the pain occurs over months of even years. A remission state can be entered; however it is likely to come back. As previously stated this form of arthritis usually occurs in the smaller joints of the body. The inflammation or swelling is usually visible and can be seen by the naked eye.

The causes of it have yet to be determined. There are many theories, but none are proven to be more accurate than the other. Some believe that this type is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and hormonal factors. Another theory is that internal factors cause the immune system to attack the joints. The most common hypothesis is that viruses and bacteria destroy joints. Because none of these theories have been proven accurate all are taken into consideration when deciding upon a treatment.

The normal treatment for this type of debilitating disease is medication. Multiple forms of medication can be used such as pain killers or anti-inflammatory drugs. Other treatments include rest, therapy, and on occasion, surgery. The type of therapy is directly related to where the pain is concentrated and what causes the pain.

This type can affect anyone. The most common misconception of pain is that only people of older age can become subject to it. This is untrue and it is important to remember that anyone can get arthritis. It is a common disorder and is often untreated. The reason this particular type is frequently untreated is because it is normally unreported. Many people do not notice their joint pain as arthritis. Like mentioned before, it can take many years to become extremely painful.

This particular debilitation can commonly be mistaken for many things. Until the pain is heightened most people do not even take it into consideration. It has many distinct symptoms and can easily be diagnosed. Even though the causes of it are not exact, there are many theories. These theories are all taken into consideration when making the diagnosis and deciding upon a treatment. Rheumatoid arthritis is a common disorder and should be taken seriously.