Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints. The result is joint inflammation, pain, and swelling primarily in the hands and feet. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can also affect organs like the skin, eyes, lungs and blood vessels. Left untreated, RA can cause damage and loss of cartilage. Joints become lose and painful, resulting in deformity. Surprisingly, each person with the disease is affected differently. Oftentimes, Rheumatoid arthritis patients experience episodes of pain and inflammation, seemingly out of nowhere, leaving them wondering how to better manage RA flares. Because doctors have no way of preventing flare ups,
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Archives for rheumatoid arthritis
Spotlight on conditions similar to rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis, the inflammation of joints and surrounding tissues, is a common condition that many elderly suffer from. Unfortunately, there are many conditions that exhibit similar symptoms to RA, which makes it difficult to diagnose. Therefore, it’s important to seek a doctor’s advice before making assumptions. According to HealthCentral.com, knowing the similarities and differences of these conditions can be beneficial in ensuring that the proper treatment is delivered. The website, which aims to empower millions of people to improve and take control of their health and well-being, pinpointed seven conditions that are sometimes mistaken for RA. The editors there went
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1 of 4: The signs of aging, a four-part series
As adults get older, the signs of aging begin to emerge. And being prepared for those changes is half the battle. To be prepared, older individuals and their family members can educate themselves as to what those signs are and what they entail. Knowing what to expect is most certainly one of the healthiest and smartest approaches to getting older. According to the National Institute of Health, there are eight areas of age-related change to be familiar with. For today’s purposes, let’s hone in on the top two, which are, coincidently, the most well-known. 1. Brain: Memory and Alzheimer's Disease The
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