Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy joint tissues. In addition to joint pain, patients with RA may also experience organ damage, commonly affecting the eyes, skin, lungs, and heart. Living with RA may be complicated and challenging, but early diagnosis and treatment may drastically improve quality of life and prevent progression of this disease.

For some patients with RA, it may be difficult to distinguish between the normal aches and pains associated with aging and something more concerning. That’s why it’s important to establish a relationship with your primary care provider, to see them at regular intervals, and to feel free to talk to them about how you’re feeling and the symptoms you experience daily. Some common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may include:

• Joint pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness (especially in the morning or after inactivity)
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Loss of appetite

While there is no one specific cause for rheumatoid arthritis, the disease is linked to several genetic and environmental factors, such as a family history of RA or other autoimmune diseases, hormonal factors, infections, and gender – women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis as men.

One controllable factor that is linked to RA – and many other medical conditions – is smoking. If you smoke, it is recommended that you stop. If you need support in smoking cessation, your primary care provider can offer resources and treatment options that are right for you.

Your doctor may order certain tests to help identify the cause of your symptoms – and if RA is suspected, some of the tests may include:

• Patient history
• Physical exams
• Blood tests
• X-rays and/or MRIs

Patients diagnosed with RA, and others with autoimmune conditions, may be referred to a rheumatologist for treatment and management of symptoms. Rheumatologists have several effective management strategies for treating RA and can tailor them to meet the patient’s specific needs. These treatments may include:

• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Lifestyle changes
• Surgery

Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex condition that requires a proactive approach to manage and find the best treatment plan for your specific needs. This process may cause stress. If you feel that dealing with this diagnosis, or any diagnosis, is taking a toll on your mental health, talk to a Kelsey-Seybold provider about your mental health.

With the right approach and the right team, managing RA is possible. Talk to a Kelsey-Seybold provider today about your symptoms.

Disclaimer: If you need counseling services sooner than an appointment can be made and you live in Texas, you can speak with a trained counselor by calling or texting 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If you or someone you know has thoughts about suicide, seek help right away. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the closest emergency room.