What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Arthritis Videos
Jane Asher, president of Arthritis Care, explains how you can eat a healthy balanced diet to improve the symptoms of your arthritis.
Dr Carol Cooper presents a short video for Arthritis Care on What Is JIA, its symptoms and treatment options available.
Hannah developed JIA, or Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis when she was 8 years old. Find out how she copes with life and how a special talent has taken her to the commonwealth games!
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Do you know all of the treatments available for your arthritis? Watch this video to find out
Many arthritis sufferers also experience depression. If you are one of them then this video can help.
Suffering with rheumatoid arthritis? Learn about new treatments that can slow the disease.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a less common form of arthritis. It is an autoimmune disease which occurs when the body’s own defence mechanisms attack and destroys the tissue surrounding the joints, called synovium. This can occur over a short or long period of time.
Symptoms of RA
RA is most common in females aged 30-50. Common symptoms of rheumatism are:
• Symmetrical problems with joints (affects both sides of the body)
• Widespread pain and inflammation
• Swelling
• Stiffness (especially in the morning)
• Fatigue
RA tends to develop suddenly, although it can develop slowly in some people. RA is much more likely to be symmetrical, occurring equally in both sides of the body. It is also more likely to affect the small and medium sized joints like the hands, wrists, and knees.
Treatments for RA are available that can stabilise the condition, halt progression and prevent further joint damage. It is imperative for anyone who believes that they are experiencing the symptoms of RA to visit a doctor immediately.
Dr Carol Cooper MA, MB, BChir (Cantab), MRCP
Arthritis Expert, Imperial College Medical School
Dr Carol Cooper is climbing Sydney Harbour Bridge to raise money for Arthritis Care and hopes you'll check out her JustGiving page and sponsor her.
10036 Published July 2009
Review Scheduled July 2013
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