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Of all the
various types of
arthritis,
rheumatoid
arthritis is
said to be the
most
debilitating.
Science
has yet to
discover a cure
for this painful
disease
which is
estimated to
affect 1% of the
adult population.
We do know that
rheumatoid
arthritis is
more common in
females, and the
onset can occur
from age 25 and
up. However,
rheumatoid
arthritis does
affect men . . .
and children can
even be
diagnosed with
this form of
arthritis.
The first sign
of rheumatoid
arthritis
usually occurs
in the hands and
feet. Swelling,
stiffness,
redness and
sometimes
deformity occurs
in the
afflicted
area. If
one ankle or
hand is
affected,
typically the
other ankle or
hand will soon
follow. As it
progresses, the
shoulders, neck,
jaw and other
joints of the
body become
affected.
Individuals with
rheumatoid
arthritis may
suffer with a
host of
ailments. These
can include
inflammation,
weakness in the
muscles around
the arthritic
joints,
inflammation of
tear ducts,
stiffness, loss
of motion,
tiredness and a
general sense of
feeling unwell.
Rheumatoid
arthritis can
also affect the
lining of the
heart and lungs.
Rheumatoid
arthritis is an
autoimmune
disease. For
some unknown
reason, the
immune system
(which aids our
bodies in
fighting off
toxins and other
harmful
substances in
the body) starts
attacking the
tissues which
line the joints.
It is important
that anyone with
rheumatoid
arthritis takes
steps to boost
their immune
system. This can
be done with
many dietary
supplements, as
well as a proper
diet.
Rheumatoid
arthritis
affects everyone
differently, and
the severity of
each case is
unique to each
individual.
Flare ups may
come and go in
some
individuals.
Others may live
with the pain of
rheumatoid
arthritis on a
daily basis.
While there is
no cure for
rheumatoid
arthritis,
retaining a
positive mindset
is important.
With
prescription
medication,
dietary
supplements, and
a proper diet
many are finding
they are able to
control and
stave off much
of the pain and
debilitation of
rheumatoid
arthritis.
Research
continues on
arthritis. One
day the cure for
rheumatoid
arthritis will
be uncovered.
Until then,
follow the
advice of your
physician and
stay up to date
on the newest
prescription and
natural
medicines which
are on the
market, and
never give up
hope. |
