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Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a form of arthritis in which the membranes or tissues lining the joints become inflamed.
The symptoms of RA include:
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Painful, swollen, tender, "hot" joints. The same joints on both sides of the body are usually affected, especially the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, and feet.
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Stiffness. Joint stiffness may develop after long periods of sleeping or sitting and may last at least 30 minutes and often up to several hours.
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Formation of bumps (nodules) in the pressure points on the body, such as the elbows, knuckles, spine, and lower leg bones.
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Tiredness, a general feeling of illness (malaise), mild fever, a loss of appetite, and weight loss.
Over time, rheumatoid arthritis may destroy the joint tissues, including cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and bone. In a small number of severe cases, RA may also damage other organs, such as the heart, lungs, skin, blood vessels, nerves, and eyes.
Rheumatoid arthritis can most often be managed with a combination of medications and home treatment. Surgery may be needed in some severe cases.
Virtual Classroom Content Copyright (c) 2006, MDNetlink.com. All rights reserved.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
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