two hours or more, according to the American College of Rheumatology. Movement usually helps loosen the joints.
Other RA symptoms include a loss of energy, low-grade fevers, poor appetite and firm lumps called rheumatoid nodules. These nodules grow beneath the skin in areas such as the elbows and hands.
According to the NIAMS, further medical problems that RA might cause are anemia, neck pain, and dry eyes and mouth. Some potentially serious symptoms are inflammation of the blood vessels, lung tissue, airways and the lining of the lungs. It can also cause inflammation in the sac around the heart (pericardium). Lung disease with scarring and inflammation of the lungs can be severe in some people.
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Rheumatoid arthritis medications
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention outlines effective treatments for RA, including medications and self-management strategies.
Rheumatoid arthritis medications include:
- DMARDs, which are disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs that slow the disease and prevent joint deformity.
- Biologics, which provide an effective second-line treatment when the DMARDs don’t work or stop working.
Besides medications, people manage their RA with strategies to reduce pain and disability. These include:
- Staying active — more movement equals less stiffness.
- Watching your weight — to lower the strain on your joints.
- Maintaining regular doctor’s visits — to maximize your health.
- Protecting your joints — be careful with your activities.
Osteoarthritis vs. rheumatoid arthritis
What is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis? According to the Mayo Clinic, osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, occurs when the cartilage that caps the bones in your joints wears away. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joints.
Another difference is the speed with which it advances. RA is known to progress quickly at the beginning and is progressive. It can be quite disabling and deforms joints into a bent position. Early intervention is critical.
On the other hand, osteoarthritis progresses slowly as you age. Repetitive activities that put a strain on the joints can lead to osteoarthritis. Old injuries can also be a factor. Osteoarthritis is sometimes hereditary and overweight people are more likely to experience this type, due to the strain on their joints.
“It’s important for a physician to figure out which arthritic condition you have because we have treatments to help put RA into remission,” rheumatologist Dr. David Fox, a professor at University of Michigan Medical School, said in a recent article.
While rheumatoid arthritis can be a life-altering diagnosis, with early treatment, careful management and a dedication to a few simple healthy living strategies, people with RA can increase their chances of living the full life they desire.