Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects joints of a human body. The disease causes inflammation in and around joints, which result in decreased mobility.

As in all autoimmune diseases, the body tissues are mistakenly attacked by its own immune system. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause inflammation of tissues present in other organs in the body. That is the reason why this disease is sometimes referred as systematic illness. Rheumatoid arthritis cures, if any, are possible only by early diagnosis and timely treatment.

Causes
In rheumatoid arthritis, specific antibodies present in the blood begin to attack the healthy tissues of the body. The disease starts with pain and inflammation in joints. As it progresses, it starts affecting the muscles and other organs also. The disease normally attacks people who are between 40 to 60 years of age. Wrists and hands are some of the first joints to be attacked. This condition can be genetic, but there are other factors as well (like smoking) that lead to its onset.

Symptoms

The preliminary symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis include swelling of the joints. At first, the delicate lining (synovium) of the joints are inflamed. Gradually, the joints stiffen and turn red. You may also suffer from a low fever, loss of appetite, and/or fatigue. As the disease progresses, the synovium gradually becomes thickened. In advanced rheumatoid arthritis, antibodies attack the entire joint by breaking down bone, synovium and cartilage. Cartilage is the strong white flexible substance found between the joints in the body. There is greater inflammation in the entire joint area resulting in heaviness and pain. After some time it becomes very difficult to bend the joints.

Cures for Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and medical history. The rheumatoid arthritis specialists (Rheumatologists) tailor a specific treatment based on your medical history. This may include anti-inflammatory drugs like analgesics etc to ease the pain or administration of cortisone shots to control swelling and stiffness. The specialist may also suggest you medications (like prednisone) to reduce the risk of joint deformity. If the disease is in its advanced stage, treatment measures may include extraction of fluid from the joints through arthrocentesis.

Some common rheumatoid arthritis treatments include sufficient rest, splinting of affected joints and mild exercise programs. Good nutrition is also very important because patients often experience anemia and weight loss.

True, that there are no known cures for rheumatoid arthritis, but an early diagnosis and treatment can substantially reduce joint inflammation and pain. Timely treatments can prevent joint destruction and deformity and prolong joint functionality and mobility. However, one should always remember that rheumatoid arthritis treatment can be much more successful if there is a close co-operation between the doctor, the patient and his or her family members.