Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that directly attacks the joints. This is usually the primary cause of disability among the people who crossed the age of fifty-five or above. Arthritis involves partial or complete breakdown of an element cartilage that protects the joints and allow them to move. When cartilage reduces in the bones it results pain, swelling, and stiffness.
What Causes Arthritis :
The main causes of arthritis are yet to be established. Although virus, bacteria and fungi long been suspected a major cause behind the disease, yet not been proved. Doctors believe that the disease may be inherited genetically. There are however a few factors said to be involved as the primary cause of the disease. These factors include any previous injury, infections and allergic reactions, certain foods and obesity as well causes arthritis.
Symptoms of Arthritis:
There are various symptoms of Arthritis reported by the individuals and all these symptoms vary from one patient to another. Following are the most common and said the symptoms of Arthritis need to be diagnosed and treated:
- Warmth around a joint
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue/loss of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Reduced ability or inability to move the joint
- Redness of the skin around a joint
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
How To Diagnose Arthritis :
A few laboratory tests and clinical analysis are performed by the doctors to confirm and establish the severity of the disease. Doctors may undertake complete analysis of the previous medical history and assess the exact location of the joint where inflammation triggered. They also evaluate the results of laboratory results done, blood tests, and other studies performed on the patient. They can also recommend an MRI and/or CT scan to establish the results and recommend the medication accordingly.
How To Treat Arthritis And The Drugs Used:
There are various kinds of treatments available to treat arthritis. Doctors however prescribe physical therapies and medication to handle the ailment. Some doctors also recommend surgery correction after measuring severity of inflammation. Hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy to the patients as per their medical conditions and response to the drugs. Some very powerful and effective drugs are also prescribed to treat arthritis. These drugs include Arthrotec, Celebrex, Myochrysine and Durolane.