This is a complicated chronic condition, marked by inflammation of the joints and occasionally other body organs, which is often marked by periods when it appears to be much improved or worsened.
In some cases it can even disappear completely - a condition known as 'burnt out' rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
For most people with RA, if treated appropriately, there may be few symptoms and a full, active life is possible.
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
For most people with RA, if treated appropriately, there may be few symptoms and a full, active life is possible.
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The basic cause of RA remains something of a mystery, but we know it occurs when the body's immune (defence) system reacts to something abnormal in the body and tries to remove it.
This response causes inflamed cells to build up in membranes surrounding the joints, and enzymes then released from these cells lead to the breakdown of normal bone and cartilage in that joint, and hence cause the characteristic symptoms of RA.
Two features arising from this are usually looked for by doctors. The first is called a rheumatoid factor which is a specific antibody produced in large quantities in RA and no other form of arthritis. This can therefore be detected on special blood tests, and confirms the diagnosis.
Two features arising from this are usually looked for by doctors. The first is called a rheumatoid factor which is a specific antibody produced in large quantities in RA and no other form of arthritis. This can therefore be detected on special blood tests, and confirms the diagnosis.
The second is the presence of rheumatoid nodules - lumps of inflamed cells usually seen on the backs of the hands, feet and elbows.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
There Are Three Main Symptoms In Rheumatoid Arthritis;
1. Pain
2. Stiffness
3. Swelling
It is typically the small joints - finger joints, knuckles and feet - which are affected first, but any joint in the body may develop symptoms. The pattern varies hugely from person to person but is characteristically seen as symmetrical; if one particular joint is affected on one side of the body then the same joint on the other side is usually affected too.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
There Are Three Main Symptoms In Rheumatoid Arthritis;
1. Pain
2. Stiffness
3. Swelling
It is typically the small joints - finger joints, knuckles and feet - which are affected first, but any joint in the body may develop symptoms. The pattern varies hugely from person to person but is characteristically seen as symmetrical; if one particular joint is affected on one side of the body then the same joint on the other side is usually affected too.
The stiffness tends to be worse early in the morning after waking, and is usually accompanied by tiredness and general malaise. Simple everyday tasks such as dressing or writing may become uncomfortable or difficult.
Will I have any tests or investigations? Yes. It is important to diagnose RA quickly and correctly because the faster this is done, the earlier treatment can begin and the lower the chance of permanent damage to the joints. However, early on in RA most doctors will have to rely heavily on the history and clinical findings for the diagnosis although there are some useful tests;
1. Blood Tests: Your doctor will look for anaemia (common in RA), presence of rheumatoid factor in the blood, evidence of inflammation from tests such as an ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C - reactive protein) test. He will also usually assess other organs such as your kidneys, liver and thyroid gland at the same time.
2. X-rays: Once damage has been done, this becomes apparent on X-raying the joints. Such changes are often seen first in the feet, so your GP may X-ray these even though you do not have any symptoms in them. Other tests which aim to pick up the disease before active damage occurs include ultrasound scanning, bone density tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
What Treatment Might I Need?
This falls into three categories;
• Looking after your joints. Regular exercise - especially swimming - is vital to maintain joint function, and you should use trainers with thick soles to absorb impact when exercising. Your GP will advise you to see an occupational therapist who will show you simple ways to reduce any unnecessary strain on your joints.
• Drugs. These are the mainstay of most peoples treatment, and there are four kinds which may be used - simple painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and corticosteroids.
• Simple painkillers. These include simple paracetamol and codeine-based painkillers, and side effects are relatively few in this group.
Drugs used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis:
• NSAIDs. These work to specifically reduce inflammation around a joint and so reduce symptoms. These include Ibuprofen, Diclofenac and Indomethacin and any side effects are usually indigestion so these are advised to be taken with food. The dose and type will be worked out between you and your doctor.
• Disease-modifying drugs. These are not painkillers as such but act to reduce inflammation and slow down the progress of RA. They can take many weeks to begin to work effectively, and are often taken for years. Side effects are more common with these types of drugs, so your doctor will monitor you regularly and take regular blood samples to make sure your body is still suiting them.
Will I have any tests or investigations? Yes. It is important to diagnose RA quickly and correctly because the faster this is done, the earlier treatment can begin and the lower the chance of permanent damage to the joints. However, early on in RA most doctors will have to rely heavily on the history and clinical findings for the diagnosis although there are some useful tests;
1. Blood Tests: Your doctor will look for anaemia (common in RA), presence of rheumatoid factor in the blood, evidence of inflammation from tests such as an ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C - reactive protein) test. He will also usually assess other organs such as your kidneys, liver and thyroid gland at the same time.
2. X-rays: Once damage has been done, this becomes apparent on X-raying the joints. Such changes are often seen first in the feet, so your GP may X-ray these even though you do not have any symptoms in them. Other tests which aim to pick up the disease before active damage occurs include ultrasound scanning, bone density tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
What Treatment Might I Need?
This falls into three categories;
• Looking after your joints. Regular exercise - especially swimming - is vital to maintain joint function, and you should use trainers with thick soles to absorb impact when exercising. Your GP will advise you to see an occupational therapist who will show you simple ways to reduce any unnecessary strain on your joints.
• Drugs. These are the mainstay of most peoples treatment, and there are four kinds which may be used - simple painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and corticosteroids.
• Simple painkillers. These include simple paracetamol and codeine-based painkillers, and side effects are relatively few in this group.
Drugs used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis:
• NSAIDs. These work to specifically reduce inflammation around a joint and so reduce symptoms. These include Ibuprofen, Diclofenac and Indomethacin and any side effects are usually indigestion so these are advised to be taken with food. The dose and type will be worked out between you and your doctor.
• Disease-modifying drugs. These are not painkillers as such but act to reduce inflammation and slow down the progress of RA. They can take many weeks to begin to work effectively, and are often taken for years. Side effects are more common with these types of drugs, so your doctor will monitor you regularly and take regular blood samples to make sure your body is still suiting them.
These can be extremely safe and effective treatments in RA and common examples include sulphasalazine, gold injections, methotrexate, D-penicillamine and azathioprine.
• Corticosteroids, or 'steroids'. These are not the same as those used by bodybuilders and athletes illegally! These are based on cortisone, a naturally occurring hormone which acts to damp down inflammation in the body - better than any other drug we have available to us.
• Corticosteroids, or 'steroids'. These are not the same as those used by bodybuilders and athletes illegally! These are based on cortisone, a naturally occurring hormone which acts to damp down inflammation in the body - better than any other drug we have available to us.
They unfortunately have side effects if taken for a long time - such as osteoporosis - and so need to be monitored carefully. However, they can be dramatically effective in controlling RA, and are given in one of three ways;
* By injection into an affected joint.
* By intramuscular or intravenous injection to reduce an aggressive flare of RA, known as a 'pulse' of treatment.
* By mouth, often at a dose of below 7mgs daily if possible.
If a large collection of fluid forms around a joint, this is known as an effusion and relief may be given by draining this fluid off the joint with a needle and syringe. Other possible treatments include physiotherapy and occupational therapy to promote muscle strength and joint movement and reduce the risk of joint deformity.
What Course Will The Illness Follow?
Every person suffering from RA has a unique pattern of their illness. Most people have a 'remitting and relapsing' pattern where symptoms become worse or lessen for a period - often for weeks or months - before settling again.
* By injection into an affected joint.
* By intramuscular or intravenous injection to reduce an aggressive flare of RA, known as a 'pulse' of treatment.
* By mouth, often at a dose of below 7mgs daily if possible.
If a large collection of fluid forms around a joint, this is known as an effusion and relief may be given by draining this fluid off the joint with a needle and syringe. Other possible treatments include physiotherapy and occupational therapy to promote muscle strength and joint movement and reduce the risk of joint deformity.
What Course Will The Illness Follow?
Every person suffering from RA has a unique pattern of their illness. Most people have a 'remitting and relapsing' pattern where symptoms become worse or lessen for a period - often for weeks or months - before settling again.
There may be periods of months or years between flare-ups, during which time there is little inflammation. However, some damage is done to the joints each time they become inflamed. Around 1 in 20 people with RA will have steadily progressive RA but as many as 1 in 5 have very mild RA, causing few problems.
Can I Do Anything To Help Myself?
An understanding of the condition, allied to prompt treatment of any flare will prevent serious joint damage in the majority of people. It is important to try to maintain as active a life as possible, and take any prescribed medication correctly. Report any new symptoms to your doctor, and you may want to join a local branch of your arthritis support group which many people find extremely helpful.
Tell Your Doctor
1. When did your symptoms begin?
2. Are the same joints affected on both sides of your body?
3. Do you have any symptoms not involving your joints such as your eyes or breathing?
4. Have you had any similar symptoms before?
5. Do you have difficulty in doing normal daily activities?
Ask Your Doctor
1. Is there a diet which will help my RA?
2. Does the weather make any difference?
3. Should I avoid getting pregnant?
4. Does RA run in families?
5. Am I still allowed to take the contraceptive pill?
Useful Contacts
Arthritis Research Campaign
Address: Arthritis Research UK, Copeman House, St Mary's Gate, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S41 7TD
Telephone: 0300 790 0400
Fax: 0300 790 0401
Email: enquiries[at]arthritisresearchuk.org
Website: arthritisresearchuk.org
Pain Support
Contact Name: Jan Sadler
Email: jansadler[at]painsupport.co.uk
Website URL: painsupport.co.uk
Patients Association
Address: PO Box 935, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 3YJ
Telephone: 0208 423 9111
Helpline: 0845 608 4455
Website: patients-association.com
British Society For Rheumatology
Address: Bride House, 18-20 Bride Lane, London, EC4Y 8EE
Telephone: 0207 842 0900
Fax: 0207 842 0901
Email: bsr[at]rheumatology.org.uk
Website: rheumatology.org.uk
Institute of Optimum Nutrition
Address: Avalon House, 72 Lower Mortlake Road, Richmond Surrey, TW9 2JY
Telephone: 0208 614 7800
Website: ion.ac.uk
Primary Care Rheumatology Society
Address: PO Box 42, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 8YG
Telephone: 01609 774 794
Fax: 01609 774 794
Email: helen[at]pcrsociety.org
Contact Name: Helen Livesey
Website: pcrsociety.org
Can I Do Anything To Help Myself?
An understanding of the condition, allied to prompt treatment of any flare will prevent serious joint damage in the majority of people. It is important to try to maintain as active a life as possible, and take any prescribed medication correctly. Report any new symptoms to your doctor, and you may want to join a local branch of your arthritis support group which many people find extremely helpful.
Tell Your Doctor
1. When did your symptoms begin?
2. Are the same joints affected on both sides of your body?
3. Do you have any symptoms not involving your joints such as your eyes or breathing?
4. Have you had any similar symptoms before?
5. Do you have difficulty in doing normal daily activities?
Ask Your Doctor
1. Is there a diet which will help my RA?
2. Does the weather make any difference?
3. Should I avoid getting pregnant?
4. Does RA run in families?
5. Am I still allowed to take the contraceptive pill?
Useful Contacts
Arthritis Research Campaign
Address: Arthritis Research UK, Copeman House, St Mary's Gate, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S41 7TD
Telephone: 0300 790 0400
Fax: 0300 790 0401
Email: enquiries[at]arthritisresearchuk.org
Website: arthritisresearchuk.org
Pain Support
Contact Name: Jan Sadler
Email: jansadler[at]painsupport.co.uk
Website URL: painsupport.co.uk
Patients Association
Address: PO Box 935, Harrow, Middlesex, HA1 3YJ
Telephone: 0208 423 9111
Helpline: 0845 608 4455
Website: patients-association.com
British Society For Rheumatology
Address: Bride House, 18-20 Bride Lane, London, EC4Y 8EE
Telephone: 0207 842 0900
Fax: 0207 842 0901
Email: bsr[at]rheumatology.org.uk
Website: rheumatology.org.uk
Institute of Optimum Nutrition
Address: Avalon House, 72 Lower Mortlake Road, Richmond Surrey, TW9 2JY
Telephone: 0208 614 7800
Website: ion.ac.uk
Primary Care Rheumatology Society
Address: PO Box 42, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 8YG
Telephone: 01609 774 794
Fax: 01609 774 794
Email: helen[at]pcrsociety.org
Contact Name: Helen Livesey
Website: pcrsociety.org
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