Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the body, causing inflammation in the joints, which can also spread to vital organs like the heart.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms in Los Angeles
Early rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can often be mistaken for a common cold or flu. Symptoms typically include:
- Redness
- Joint swelling
- Joint pain
- Joint stiffness
- Loss of joint function
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue/loss of energy
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle stiffness
Unlike osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis that results from wear and tear on the joints, rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the lining of the joints. Over time, it can lead to joint deformity and erosion of the bone.Patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders such as lupus are diagnosed and treated by an autoimmune specialist. This specialist will take a complete medical history and perform a full physical exam, as well as perform diagnostic blood tests, x-rays, and MRIs.
Patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders such as lupus are diagnosed and treated by an autoimmune specialist. This specialist will take a complete medical history and perform a full physical exam, as well as perform diagnostic blood tests, x-rays, and MRIs.
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect anyone at any age, but is more prevalent in women, and usually presents itself after the age of 40. In addition to the heart, the inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis can sometimes also affect other organs and tissue such as:
- Skin
- Eyes
- Lungs
- Blood vessels
Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis varies from patient to patient and depends on the severity of the condition. Typically, treatment focuses on the management of symptoms and the prevention of joint damage. Early symptoms usually begin in the joints of the hands and fingers and can then progress to the knees, wrists, elbows, hips, and shoulders.
Next, read more about an osteoarthritis doctor.
