Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

I have been diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis and so I have started to find out about this disorder and how it may affect my future if I don't follow the doctor's advice. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation and pain in the joints, as well as damage to other organs in the body. In an autoimmune disorder, the immune system, which normally fights off infections and other foreign invaders, mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, including the joints.

RA typically affects the joints in the hands, wrists, feet, and ankles, but can also affect other parts of the body such as the eyes, skin, lungs, and heart. Symptoms of RA can include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, fatigue, fever, and weight loss. The severity of RA can vary from person to person, and some people may experience periods of remission where the symptoms improve or go away completely.

While the exact cause of RA is unknown, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is currently no cure for RA, but treatment options such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. I am lucky as it was diagnosed early and I learned that early diagnosis and treatment are important in managing RA and preventing further damage to the joints and other organs in the body. As I continue to fight this disorder I will, from time to time, update on how I am doing.