Causes of rheumatoid arthritis
The precise cause of the disease is not known at this time; however, some experts believe that a virus or bacteria might trigger the disease in those people who are genetically predisposed to it. There are some doctors who believe this disease is actually an autoimmune disease, or a disease in which the joint’s tissue has been attacked by the immune system. Rheumatoid arthritis happens most often during middle age and is more likely to affect women than men.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
Pain and swelling of the joints and difficulty moving are primary signs of rheumatoid arthritis. Others include loss of appetite and energy, fever, anemia and what are known as rheumatoid modules or small lumps of tissue under the skin. People suffering from the disease will experience flare-ups involving pain and stiffness in multiple joints.
Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
Treatment for pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis may involve medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin and analgesics. If non-surgical treatment is unsuccessful, you and your physician may decide to pursue knee surgery as the best treatment option to help you regain your quality of life.
