Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or inflammatory rheumatism, is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causes inflammation and can damage different organs of the body over time. Inflammation of the joint membranes occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues. If it progresses, it causes damage to bone and cartilage tissue. It significantly limits mobility and negatively affects patients’ daily life activities.
Inflammatory Rheumatism is a common disease in the society and is more common especially in women. The disease usually affects the joints of the hands, wrists, knees and ankles. However, in some cases it can also damage internal organs such as the lungs, heart and eyes. If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis progresses and severely reduces patients’ quality of life.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the symptoms, causes, diagnostic methods and current treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis. We will also include recommendations for patients to live their daily lives more comfortably.
Table of Contents
- What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
- Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis
- How is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
- Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Methods
- Lifestyle Tips for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
- Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis and Tests
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Inflammatory Rheumatism is a chronic, systemic and progressive autoimmune disease that can affect joints, surrounding tissues and even some internal organs. Normally, the immune system works to protect the body from infections and foreign threats. However, in autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy tissues. In rheumatoid arthritis, joint membranes, cartilage, bone and even some organs become the target of this attack.
Over time, the joint capsules, synovial membranes and cartilage tissue become inflamed and damaged. This causes pain, swelling, stiffness and restricted movement. As the disease progresses, joint deformations occur and activities of daily living become difficult.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The symptoms of inflammatory rheumatism vary from person to person, but are usually manifested by the following symptoms:
Pain and tenderness in the joints: RA usually causes symmetrical joint involvement. This means it tends to occur in both hands, both knees or both wrists at the same time.
Swelling and inflammation: Inflammation causes swelling and redness in the joint area.
Stiffness: Stiffness in the joints, especially in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. This morning stiffness usually lasts for more than an hour.
Limitation of movement: Inflammation and damage to the joints leads to reduced mobility.
General weakness and fatigue: When the immune system is overactive, the body experiences general weakness and fatigue.
Subcutaneous nodules: In advanced stages of inflammatory rheumatism, small hard lumps called rheumatoid nodules form in the joint areas.
They can affect organs such as the eyes, lungs and heart: In some cases, the disease is not limited to the joints and has systemic effects, such as inflammation of the eye (scleritis), lung problems or cardiovascular problems.
Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The exact cause of the disease is unknown. However, irregularities in the immune system play a role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Some environmental factors are also thought to be effective.
Factors that may cause RA:
Genetic Factors: People with a family history of rheumatoid arthritis have a higher risk of developing the disease.
Immune System Disorders: The body may perceive healthy joint tissues as a threat and attack them.
Smoking: Smoking is an important factor that increases the risk of developing the disease.
Hormonal Changes: It is more common in women, suggesting a hormonal influence. Estrogen may play a role in the development of the disease.
Obesity and Unhealthy Lifestyle: Excess weight increases the load on the joints. It also accelerates the progression of the disease.
How is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
Early diagnosis of inflammatory rheumatism is critical to controlling the disease. More than one method is used for diagnosis:
- Blood Tests: Inflammation levels are measured with tests such as RF (Rheumatoid Factor) and anti-CCP. CRP and ESR tests also help assess inflammation.
- Imaging Methods: X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound are used to detect joint damage.
- Physical Examination: The doctor examines the patient’s joints and assesses swelling and pain.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Methods
There is no definitive treatment for inflammatory rheumatism. However, the disease’s progression can be slowed, and symptoms can be alleviated with appropriate methods.
- Drug Therapy: Medication is the mainstay of rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Medications are crucial for controlling the disease and preventing joint damage. They also help the patient continue daily life.
- Physical Therapy and Exercise: In addition to drug treatment, physical therapy helps maintain joint functions. Rehabilitation programs also play a major role in patient care.
- Nutrition and Diet: The diet of rheumatoid arthritis patients is important for disease management. Proper nutrition helps control symptoms and improve well-being. A diet that reduces inflammation supports joint health.
- Alternative and Supportive Therapies: In addition to traditional treatments, some alternative methods help manage pain. Supportive approaches also reduce inflammation.
Lifestyle Tips for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
People with inflammatory rheumatism need to make important lifestyle changes. These changes improve quality of life and slow disease progression. Small but effective changes to daily routines help patients maintain joint health. These adjustments also reduce pain.
- Exercise Regularly
Low-impact exercises support joint health, improving mobility and maintaining muscle strength. The most suitable exercises for people with rheumatoid arthritis are the following:
- Walking: Increases joint mobility while avoiding overstraining.
- Swimming and water aerobics: Water reduces the load on the joints, making it easier to move.
- Yoga and stretching: Builds flexibility, reduces stress and strengthens muscles.
- Eat a Balanced and Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Dietary habits directly affect inflammation levels. Here are the foods that rheumatoid arthritis patients should consume:
- Vegetables and Fruits: Contain plenty of antioxidants and support the immune system.
- Avoid Sugar and Processed Foods: Excess sugar consumption increases inflammation and exacerbates disease symptoms.
- Maintain Healthy Weight Control
Excess weight puts extra pressure on the joints and can lead to increased pain. Therefore, maintaining an ideal weight with a healthy diet and regular exercise is of great importance for disease management.
- Give Importance to Stress Management
Stress can worsen the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. You can use the following methods to cope with stress:
- Meditation and Breathing Exercises: Daily meditation or deep breathing techniques can help to relax.
- Taking up a Hobby: Engage in activities you enjoy to reduce stress.
- Get enough and quality sleep
Lack of sleep and irregular sleep can make it difficult for the body to recover and exacerbate disease symptoms. You can follow these steps to establish a good sleep pattern:
- Make your sleeping environment dark and quiet.
- Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis and Tests
Early diagnosis of inflammatory rheumatism is critical to controlling the disease. More than one method is used for diagnosis:
- Blood Tests: Tests such as RF (Rheumatoid Factor), anti-CCP, CRP and ESR measure inflammation levels.
- Imaging Methods: X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound are used to detect joint damage.
- Physical Examination: The doctor examines the patient’s joints and assesses swelling and pain.
- Joint Fluid Analysis: In some cases, the doctor can measure the level of inflammation by taking a sample of joint fluid.
Conclusion
As a result, rheumatoid arthritis, i.e. inflammatory rheumatism, is a disease that can be controlled with early diagnosis and correct treatment approaches, but cannot be completely cured. Untreated or uncontrolled RA can lead to joint deformations, movement limitations and serious difficulties in daily life over time. However, thanks to drug treatments, physiotherapy applications and lifestyle changes offered by modern medicine, patients can maintain their mobility and lead a healthy life.
According to Orthopedics and Traumatology Specialist Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar, it is of great importance for rheumatoid arthritis patients to attach importance to the early diagnosis process, not to underestimate the symptoms and not to neglect regular doctor checks. Modern treatment options such as disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs) and biological agents are used to slow the progression of the disease and minimize joint damage.
In addition, adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as a balanced diet, regular exercise and stress management can help patients reduce pain and preserve joint function in the long term. A diet that includes vitamin D, Omega-3 and anti-inflammatory foods also helps to balance the immune system.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects not only the joints but also overall health. Therefore, patients should not only focus on pain, but also pay attention to cardiovascular health, osteoporosis risk and muscle strength. Living with chronic diseases requires not only medical treatments but also psychological and social support mechanisms. In this process, participating in patient support groups, receiving psychological counseling and maintaining strong communication with loved ones help to improve quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is rheumatoid arthritis completely cured?
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease and there is currently no definitive cure. However, with early diagnosis, the progression of the disease can be controlled. Symptoms can be alleviated with appropriate treatment methods.
- Is rheumatoid arthritis contagious?
No, rheumatoid arthritis is not contagious. It is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint tissues.
- Who is more likely to get rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women. Individuals with a family history of rheumatoid arthritis have a higher risk. This increases their likelihood of developing the disease.Smokers and obese people are also more prone to the disease.
- In which age group does rheumatoid arthritis occur?
The disease usually occurs between the ages of 30-50. However, it can be seen in all age groups. Rheumatoid arthritis rarely develops in children.
- Which doctors should be consulted for rheumatoid arthritis?
For the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, you should consult a rheumatologist. An orthopaedic and traumatology specialist can also provide guidance.
- Does nutrition affect the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes, foods with anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation levels. For example, fish rich in omega-3 help to relieve symptoms. Olive oil and green leafy vegetables also provide benefits. Processed foods, sugar and excessive salt consumption can worsen symptoms.
- Is exercise good for people with rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes, regular exercise helps to maintain joint mobility, strengthen muscles and improve overall health. Low-impact exercises (e.g. walking, swimming and yoga) are particularly recommended.
Youtube Videos
