Rheumatoid Arthritis
Also called rheumatoid arthritis, ra, joint swelling, autoimmune arthritis, morning stiffness
What this condition is
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition in which the body's own immune system, which normally fights infections, mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. This causes pain, swelling and stiffness, often in the small joints of the hands and feet, and usually on both sides of the body. Unlike wear and tear arthritis, it can affect younger people too. Living with it can be tiring, especially during flare ups, but treatment has improved greatly. With the right medicines started early and steady follow up, many people keep the condition well controlled and protect their joints.
Signs to watch for
- Pain and swelling in several joints, often the hands and feet
- Stiffness in the morning that lasts more than half an hour
- Symptoms usually affecting both sides of the body
- Warmth and tenderness over the joints
- Tiredness and a general feeling of being unwell
What to do
- Take your prescribed medicines regularly, as they protect your joints
- Keep your joints moving with gentle exercise
- Rest during flare ups but stay active otherwise
- Attend regular follow ups and blood tests
- Protect your joints during daily tasks
What to avoid
- Do not stop your medicines when you feel better, as this can cause flares
- Avoid overstraining swollen, painful joints
- Do not ignore a sudden severe flare
- Avoid smoking, which can worsen the condition
Ways to feel better day to day
- Use warm water soaks to ease morning stiffness
- Try gentle range of motion exercises daily
- Use tools and aids that reduce strain on the hands
- Balance activity with rest to manage fatigue
- Eat a balanced diet and keep a healthy weight
Speak to a doctor if
- A sudden severe flare with many swollen, painful joints
- Fever along with joint symptoms
- A single joint that is very hot, red and swollen
- New chest pain, breathlessness or other body symptoms
- Side effects from your medicines
Your next step
Turn this into a plan that is yours
Everything above is general. Your dose, your targets and your test schedule depend on your age, your reports and the other conditions you live with.
