Signs to watch out that may indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease. It occurs due to faulty immune system causing damage to joints and other organs. Worldwide RA affects around 1 % of adult population. Possible causes of this disease include genetics, environment, infection, medicines, and smoking. Genes alone cannot transfer the disease to their offspring as it requires multiple factors to get activated as mentioned prior. This disease predominantly affects the joints [synovial membrane] of upper and lower limbs. In long standing and poorly controlled disease, other organs like heart, kidneys can get affected. Successful pregnancy and delivery can be achieved. This disease can be diagnosed as per pattern of joint pain, special blood tests [RF, ACCP]. Treatment available consists of pain killers, steroids, special medicines like DMARDs and biologicals. With advanced technology and good drug compliance patients are now getting better results.

Signs to watch out that may indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis

• This disease should be suspected in cases of multiple joint pains with swelling, morning stiffness and warmth.
• RA is suspected in cases of joint pain of more than 6 weeks
• It occurs predominantly in females. Children can also be involved.
• Both sides of body are involved. They may have difficulty in making a fist.
• Generally, there is no backache.
• It starts slowly and progresses over few weeks.
• Initially they don’t have other issues like oral ulcers, skin rash and transient finger discoloration.
• Reports showing positive tests like Rheumatoid factor [RF], Anti-CCP
• Initially, it gives quick response to NSAIDs [pain killers], steroids
• Initially, it gives quick response to NSAIDs [pain killers], steroids

Joint Swelling

Dr. Praveen Jain
Consultant, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology