Like other forms of arthritis, RA is associated with joint pain. Where it differs from other types of the condition is in its effect on the whole body. RA is an autoimmune disease where the immune system turns on the body and attacks the healthy tissue surrounding the joints. The resulting inflammation is painful and debilitating, and as RA is a progressive condition, treatment is needed for both pain relief and to stop the damage done to the joints.
Typical symptoms of RA are painful swelling and stiffness in the joints, an overall feeling of fatigue and the constant presence of flu-like symptoms. In more severe cases, you might suffer inflammation in the lung and eyes. The symptoms are likely to be prevalent first thing in the morning and can last for hours, making RA a particularly debilitating condition to deal with.
The focus of treatment of RA is in reducing the inflammation around the joints and in providing pain relief for the stiffness and swelling. The medication used will not cure RA but disease-modifying drugs and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs typically prescribed to RA patients can instead control the painful symptoms.
Natural therapies are also believed to have a part to play in managing the symptoms of RA. Gentle exercise to maintain flexibility in the joints and keep muscles toned is recommended, while a diet containing supplements and products known for their anti-inflammatory properties may have some benefit. Some patients use meditation to reduce stress and help to deal with the overall feeling of malaise associated with RA.
Maintaining regular contact with your physician is important to monitor how your condition is progressing and, where necessary, to try different therapies or medication to improve your wellbeing.