Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder mainly affecting the joints. It occurs when your body’s immune system targets the thin layer of healthy tissue lining the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects the joints but inflammation caused by it can affect other organs as well. This joint-related condition causes several issues like pain, fatigue, etc. The question is what causes rheumatoid arthritis? The exact reason RA occurs is unknown, however, there are several risk factors.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Risk Factors:
Some of the factors that can increase the risk of RA include the following:
1. Age:
The risk of developing RA increases with age, however, it can affect at any age. People in their 60s have the highest onset of RA.
2. Lifestyle exposure & the environment:
The risk of rheumatoid arthritis may increase in adulthood due to various exposures at an early age. Toxic chemical exposure may also add to the risk of you developing RA.
3. Gender:
This joint-related condition is more common among women compared to men.
4. Obesity:
Obesity or excess weight people are at a higher risk of developing RA, especially for people under 55.
5. Smoking:
Smoking results in a higher risk of RA especially if the person’s genes make them more likely to. Moreover, smoking can also make the condition worse.
6. Family history:
If someone from your family has RA, you may also be at a higher risk of developing the condition.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: What are the symptoms?
Early signs of rheumatoid arthritis include the following:
- Fatigue; feeling tired is one of the early symptoms a person comes across due to RA.
- Slight fever
- Stiffness
- Weight loss
- Pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints
Other signs of rheumatoid arthritis include:
- Pain, stiffness, or aching in more than one joint.
- Weakness
- Same symptoms on both parts (e.g., both knees or both hands)
How is Rheumatoid Arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosing RA involves diagnostic tests like radiology and blood test (e.g., RA factor).
What is RA Factor?
It is a kind of blood test that measures rheumatoid factors (proteins produced by the immune system that can attack healthy cells) in the blood.
At KKT Orthopedic Spine Center, diagnosing RA involves:
- An intensive background history
- Detailed physical examination
- Diagnostic tests
Why KKT?
KKT offers revolutionary non-surgical Canadian technology treatment for spine-related ailments. KKT treatment plays a vital role in realigning the spine back to its original position eventually eliminating pain and other issues that occurred due to misalignment of the spine. For booking an appointment, click on the link below.