Recent reports regarding rheumatoid arthritis suggest that regular consumption of non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs to combat the painful symptoms of the condition isn’t recommended due to the side effects that occur. Such medication should only be used when prescribed after a full medical consultation, rather than being administered as and when pain strikes.
An inflammatory condition which affects the joints, rheumatoid arthritis can cause chronic pain and can often be quite debilitating to sufferers. This disease arises from the body’s immune system and tends to affect the small joints in the hands and feet, resulting in the swelling and eventual erosion of the bones. It can, in some cases, lead to deformities in the bone and joint. Due to the nature of the disease, it can sometimes also affect other organs in the body – the respiratory system, heart and eyes can be damaged.
While it can affect all ages, rheumatoid arthritis tends to be common in those aged 40 to 60, with women being three times more likely to contract the condition. The symptoms are separated into categories, with the stiffness of joints, fatigue, apathy, a feeling of weakness and the inability to manage regular daily tasks all being common amongst those with the condition. These are in addition to the general symptom of the swelling and pain found in joints.
Studies into the condition show that if one is diagnosed early, it can dramatically improve the likelihood of the individual being able to combat the problem. It can help to reduce the risk of the bones and joints being damaged beyond repair, as well as helping sufferers to prevent its progression. The education of patients is important, according to researchers, as it helps them to regulate and continue their medicinal management to ensure an effective treatment of the condition.
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