Rheumatoid Arthritis
By: Sara Fox
Definition
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term disease that leads to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. It can also affect other organs.
Symtoms
- Morning joint stiffness that lasts at least 60 minutes before going away
- Joint pain
- Joint swelling, commonly observed in the hands
- Weakness
- Fatigue
Causes
- When a persons immune system targets a persons joint linings. It can also affect other places
- Heredity
- Auto immune disease
Prevention
- There is no actual way of preventing RA but if you work out and stay healthy you are more likely to have less of a chance to get it.
Statistics
2.1 million adults have RA in the United Stated.
Treatment
- Injections
- Rest
- Surgery
- Joint exercises
- Medications
Cites:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis Statistics." EMedTV: Health Information Brought To Life. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Apr. 2013. <http://arthritis.emedtv.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis-statistics.html>.
- "Rheumatoid Arthritis: Treatment & Care." WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 26 Apr. 2013. <http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/treatment-care-rheumatoid-arthritis>.