Rheumatoid Arthritis is auto immune systemic disease, frequently starts between the ages of 25 and 55 in women and somewhat later in life in men. The lifetime risk of developing RA is four percent for women and three percent for men. However, RA can strike at any age—even small children can get it. Rheumatoid Arthritis causes are unknown, but it is believed to result from a faulty immune response. Genes specific to the X chromosome are among newly identified genes linked to rheumatoid arthritis, this could provide a useful clue in helping us to understand why rheumatoid arthritis is three times more likely to occur in women. The ratio is really about four to one.  Some scientists also think that a variety of hormonal factors may be involved so women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than men. The disease may improve during pregnancy and flare after pregnancy. Breastfeeding may also aggravate the disease. Contraceptive use may increase a person’s likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis. This suggests hormones, or possibly deficiencies or changes in certain hormones, may promote the development of rheumatoid arthritis in a genetically susceptible person who has been exposed to a triggering agent from the environment. Even though all the answers are not known, one thing is certain: rheumatoid arthritis develops as a result of an interaction of many factors. Researchers are trying to understand these factors and how they work together.

RA is a systemic inflammatory disease that manifests itself in multiple joints in the body. This inflammation usually affects the lining of the joints (synovial membrane), but can also affect other organs. This inflamed joint lining leads to erosions of the cartilage and bone and sometimes causes joint deformity. Pain, swelling, and redness are common joint symptoms. Early diagnosis is challenging because the symptoms of early RA can be non-specific like malaise, fatigue, weakness, muscle soreness, low-grade fever, and weight loss, these symptoms may actually be caused by other common conditions.

There is no cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis, but effective drugs are increasingly available to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis and prevent deformed joints. In addition to medications and surgery, scientifically-proven self-management approaches, such as exercise, meditation can reduce pain and disability and make them better physically, emotionally, and mentally . Build a sense of confidence in the ability to function and lead full, active, and independent lives. Research shows that people who take part in their own care report less pain and make fewer doctor visits. They also enjoy a better quality of life.

There is also hope for tomorrow, as researchers begin to apply new technologies such as stem cell transplantation and novel imaging techniques. These and other advances will lead to an improved quality of life for people with rheumatoid arthritis and gives them Hope.