Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is not just a term you hear in doctor’s offices — it’s a reality for millions of people around the world, including a significant number in India. Recent stats say nearly 0.75% of the Indian population has RA. That’s 10 million people (in India) who live with this condition every day.
RA’s impact goes beyond physical symptoms; it affects daily life, mental health and overall well-being.
Knowing how to manage rheumatoid arthritis well can make a big difference in your life or the life of a loved one. This blog aims to provide comprehensive information about RA – what it is, what causes it, and how to cure rheumatoid arthritis permanently. We’ll get into the details of RA and offer practical tips and insights to help you manage it better.
Whether you are newly diagnosed, looking for more information, or just want to understand what someone close to you is going through, this guide aims to answer all your concerns.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, specifically the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is wear and tear on the joints, RA is a systemic condition that can affect multiple joints and even other parts of the body.
It usually starts with the small joints in your hands and feet and can spread to major joints. Let’s understand how it affects joints in detail:\
How RA Affects the Joints
In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the synovium, the lining of the joints. This leads to inflammation which can cause swelling, pain and eventually joint damage. Over time, the inflammation can erode bone and cartilage resulting in joint deformities and loss of function.
This damage can make everyday activities like opening a jar to walking comfortably difficult.
Systemic Effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is not just limited to joint problems. The chronic inflammation of RA can also affect other organs. Some people develop issues with their lungs, heart or eyes due to RA.
This broader impact means managing RA demands more than just treating joint pain; it means a holistic approach to overall health.
Diagnosis and Early Intervention
Diagnosing Rheumatoid arthritis early is tough but important. Doctors use a combination of blood tests and imaging studies to diagnose RA. Early diagnosis is key because starting treatment early can prevent joint damage and improve long-term outcomes.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes
The rheumatoid arthritis causes aren’t fully understood but several factors contribute to it. Here is a breakdown of the main causes:
Genetic
Your genes can make you more likely to get rheumatoid arthritis. Certain genes like the HLA-DR4 (human leukocyte antigen-DR4) gene are linked to RA. Having those genes doesn’t mean you’ll definitely suffer from RA, it just increases the chances. RA can run in families but it can also occur in people with no family history of it.
Environmental Triggers
Certain environmental factors can trigger rheumatoid arthritis in people who are more likely to get it due to their genes. For example, infections or exposure to certain chemicals can be triggers. Smoking is a known risk factor; it increases the chances of getting RA and can also make it worse if you already have it.
Hormonal
Hormones can also be a major factor casuing rheumatoid arthritis. RA is more common in women, especially during hormonal changes like pregnancy or menopause. These hormonal changes can affect the immune system and contribute to RA.
Lifestyle
Your lifestyle can affect your chances of getting rheumatoid arthritis. A sedentary lifestyle, poor diet and high stress can contribute to the progression of RA. Living a healthier lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Knowing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis is key to getting timely treatment and managing the condition. Watch out for the following common rheumatoid arthritis symptoms:
Joint Pain and Swelling
The main symptom of RA is pain and swelling in the joints, especially in the small joints of the hands and feet. This pain is usually worse in the morning or after sitting for a while. It affects both sides of the body symmetrically, unlike other types of arthritis.
Morning Stiffness
Many people with RA experience stiffness in the joints, especially in the morning. This stiffness can last for hours and makes it hard to move and get out of bed. This symptom can affect your ability to start the day and do daily tasks.
Fatigue and Malaise
Fatigue or feeling tired is another rheumatoid arthritis symptom that needs your attention. This tiredness is not just from physical activity but is often a result of chronic inflammation in the body. Feeling generally unwell or malaise can accompany this fatigue and make daily activities harder.
Rheumatoid Nodules
Some people with RA develop rheumatoid nodules, which are firm lumps under the skin, usually around the elbows. These nodules are painless but can be uncomfortable or cause skin irritation. They appear in areas under pressure from activities or repeated motion.
Reduced Mobility
Rheumatoid arthritis can cause reduced mobility in the affected joints. As the disease progresses, inflammation and joint damage can limit how much you can move the affected joints. This reduced flexibility can affect your ability to do daily tasks and activities.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment is about reducing symptoms, managing pain and preventing further joint damage. Here are the popular treatment options depending on your condition:
Medications
Medications play an important role in RA management:
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These drugs relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Examples are ibuprofen and naproxen. These drugs are used for the short term only and don’t stop the disease from progressing.
- Corticosteroids: Medications like prednisone are used to control severe inflammation fast. Provides quick relief but is used for the short term only due to side effects.
- Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Drugs like methotrexate slow down the progression of RA and prevent joint damage. Modify the disease course and use long-term.
- Biologics: These are newer meds that target specific parts of the immune system to control inflammation and prevent joint damage. Examples are etanercept and adalimumab.
2. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy offers a holistic approach to rheumatoid arthritis treatment:
- Exercise Programs: A physical therapist can create an exercise program to maintain joint function and reduce stiffness. Exercises focus on strengthening muscles around the joints and improving flexibility.
- Assistive Devices: Tools like canes, braces, or splints can help support the joints and make daily tasks easier. Your physical therapist can recommend devices.
- Joint Protection Techniques: Learning techniques to reduce stress on your joints can prevent further damage. This includes using proper body mechanics and avoiding activities that put too much stress on your joints.
3. Surgical Interventions
If medication and therapy aren’t enough, surgical options may be considered.
- Joint Replacement Surgery: Involves replacing of damaged joint with an artificial one. The procedure can improve joint function and reduce pain when other treatments don’t work.
- Synovectomy: Removes the inflamed lining of a joint. It helps reduce inflammation and pain and improve joint function.
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove damaged tissue or repair joint structures. It can relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and improve joint function.
How to Get Rid of Rheumatoid Arthritis Permanently
The concept of how to cure rheumatoid arthritis permanently is still being researched and debated. There is no permanent treatment for rheumatoid arthritis yet, but there are ways to go into remission and manage it.
Remission
- Early Treatment: Treating early can manage symptoms and slow down disease progression. The goal of treatment is to achieve remission where symptoms are minimal or none.
- Regular Monitoring: Frequent check-ups with your doctor ensure treatment is working and allow for adjustments as needed.
- Adherence to Treatment: Following your treatment plan, including taking meds and attending therapy sessions, is key to managing RA.
Lifestyle Changes
- Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats can reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds are great.
- Regular Exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming, walking or cycling can keep your joints flexible and reduce stiffness.
- Stress Management: Techniques like yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises can manage stress which can affect rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Future Research and Hope for a Cure
- Treatments: Research in genetics, immunology and drug development means new treatments and possibly a cure in the future. Stay informed and up-to-date on new options for managing RA.
- Clinical Trials: Join clinical trials and get access to new treatments and help develop future treatment methods.
Rheumatoid Arthritis ICD 10
Rheumatoid arthritis ICD 10 is the code used to diagnose and document RA in medical records.
ICD-10 Coding
- M05: This code is for rheumatoid arthritis with rheumatoid factor-positive, more severe disease.
- M06: This code is for rheumatoid arthritis without a rheumatoid factor. It includes various subcategories depending on the manifestations and complications.
- M07: This code is for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and other types of inflammatory arthritis in children.
Why ICD-10 Codes Matter
Knowing these codes will help you manage the condition and get accurate treatment and insurance claims. Using Rheumatoid arthritis ICD 10 codes helps track RA prevalence and treatment outcomes. It also helps research and patient care.
Get answers for your rheumatoid arthritis with a free consultation from expert physiotherapists!
Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication
Rheumatoid arthritis medication is needed to manage symptoms and prevent disease progression. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of medication.
1. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Purpose: To reduce pain and inflammation. Examples are ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Usage: Used for short term or in combination with other treatments. Long-term use may cause side effects like gastrointestinal issues.
2. Disease-modifying antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)
- Purpose: To slow down RA and prevent joint damage. Methotrexate is a common DMARD.
- Usage: Used long-term and requires regular monitoring to check for side effects and efficacy.
3. Biologics
- Purpose: To target specific parts of the immune system that cause inflammation. Examples are etanercept and adalimumab.
- Usage: For severe cases or when DMARDs don’t work. These medications can reduce symptoms and improve life quality.
4. Corticosteroids
- Purpose: To quickly reduce inflammation and control severe symptoms. Prednisone is a common corticosteroid.
- Usage: Used for the short term due to side effects. Long-term use is usually avoided unless necessary.
5. Combination Therapy
- Purpose: To maximise the effect by combining medications. For example, DMARDs with biologics or NSAIDs.
- Usage: Based on individual needs and closely monitored to balance effects and side effects.
Conclusion
NIAMS study About Overview about Living with rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging, but knowing the condition and the treatment options can make a big difference. Early diagnosis and management, including medication, lifestyle changes and possibly surgery, is key to controlling symptoms and living a fulfilling life.
While a cure for RA is still in the future, remission and management is possible. Remember, you’re not alone — information and support are out there to help you through every step of RA. Stay informed, seek help, and keep taking action towards better health.
