What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Today is RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS AWARENESS DAY!
DID YOU KNOW…
💡 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. The body’s immune system attacks healthy tissues in the body, leading to inflammation and possible damage.
💡 RA affects more than just your body’s joints. It can also affect your skin, heart, lungs, eyes and blood vessels.
💡 Chronic fatigue is a major symptom that can significantly impact quality of life.
💡 People living with RA have greater risk for heart disease, the leading cause of death for people with RA.
💡 RA isn’t just an adult disease — nearly 300,000 children under age 18 live with some form of arthritis in the US.
💡 There is no cure for RA.
While there is no CURE, there are many TREATMENTS available to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, prevent joint damage, and improve quality of life. Some treatments include:
👉 Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): think Tylenol or Ibuprofen) that help with pain and swelling, but don’t slow disease progress.
👉 Corticosteroids (like Prednisone): used short-term, can contribute to osteoarthritis.
👉 Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): methotrexate, leflunomide or hydroxychloroquine. These slow progression of the disease, and are often combined with other therapies.
👉 Biologic Agents: for moderate to severe cases, these target specific immune components — like B-cells or TBF inhibitors like Humira, Enbrel, Remicade and Rituxan.
👉 Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors: these block inflammatory pathways, like Xeljanz & Rinvoq.
👉 Physical and Occupational Therapy: used improve joint function, strength, and mobility through exercises, splints, and adaptive techniques to help w/daily activities.
👉 Surgery: In severe cases with significant damage, procedures like joint replacement or synovectomy (removal of inflamed lining) may be necessary to restore function.
Treatment plans are personalized, and often combine drugs, therapies, & lifestyle changes. Consult a rheumatologist for tailored recommendations.
Fellow RA WARRIORS — what do YOU want people to know about RA? RESPOND TO THIS EMAIL, or leave a comment on our INSTAGRAM POST or on our FACEBOOK POST!
RA can feel isolating. Please know – YOU ARE NOT ALONE! And of course, NEVER GIVE UP! 🙏♥️