Rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive, disabling, and chronic autoimmune condition that generally causes pain, swelling, and inflammation around and in the joints. It typically affects the feet and hands first, but the disease may develop in all joints. Healthcare experts usually divide the condition into two types: seronegative and seropositive. Those with the former tend to have antibody levels of anti-CCP, while those who have the latter won’t, making it much more challenging to diagnose it.
The causes of rheumatoid arthritis remain unclear. However, the CDC notes those at greater risk of potentially developing the condition include people over sixty years of age who possess specific genetics, are obese, and smoke tobacco. In addition, in the disease’s early stages, it may not be easy to diagnose, as it can share many similarities with other disorders. Therefore, getting a diagnosis is immediately recommended upon the onset of any indicators or signs.
Some tests that may determine the condition are anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and c-reactive protein blood tests. Imaging scans like x-rays can also enable healthcare providers to diagnose the arthritis type present and track its progress over time to ensure it isn’t getting worse.
Joint Pain
Joints are integral, as they enable limb movement. If you experience arthralgia or joint pain, it can cause discomfort and affect your ability to engage in daily physical activities. It’s a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis. However, it can also be caused by other factors and conditions, including but not necessarily limited to injury, bacterial and viral infections, and different arthritic disorders like osteoarthritis and septic arthritis.
Some symptoms that may accompany aches in the joints are tenderness, stiffness, swelling, limited mobility, weakness, and fatigue. Usually, the pain’s initial diagnosis involves the evaluation by a doctor and physical examinations. In addition, medical practitioners may order laboratory tests and imaging techniques like antinuclear antibodies, ultrasound, and CT scans to identify the trigger for the pain if there’s no apparent reason for the cause of the aches.
Treatment for arthralgia varies depending on its cause. Generally, doctors prescribe medication to alleviate the pain. For example, they may suggest NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and corticosteroids for those with arthritis. For those with an infection, antibiotics may be recommended. However, in mild cases, joint pain can be effectively treated at home with adequate rest, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, or pain relievers.
