THE rheumatoid arthritis it is an autoimmune, chronic, systemic and inflammatory disease that mainly affects the joint region. It is estimated that approximately 1% of the population develops this pathology, mostly women.
The cause of the disease is still unknown, but it is believed that, in reality, it is determined by a combination factors such as genetic predisposition, virus and bacterial infections, environmental influence and issues hormones. Pollutants and cigarettes also seem to influence its appearance.
Rheumatoid arthritis has as its main symptom pain in the joints, which are hot and swollen. This condition is also characterized by rigidity and consequent difficulty in moving these places, which occurs mainly in the morning. Inflammation usually affects both sides of the body. An interesting feature of rheumatoid arthritis is that practically all patients have the hand affected by the disease.
Sometimes, the cervical spine may be affected, which is mainly characterized by pain in the back of the head and difficulty moving the neck.
As it is a progressive disease, without proper treatment, it tends to get worse, mainly causing deformities. These deformities are the result of tendon rupture and joint deterioration, as well as bone and cartilage erosion. Sometimes the injuries are so severe that they can lead to physical disability.
Although rheumatoid arthritis is mainly related to the joints, some organs such as the lungs, heart, blood vessels and nervous system may be compromised. In these cases, the disease presents itself in the most aggressive way.
With regard to pregnancy, it is clear that the disease presents a relative improvement in the stage of pregnancy, and during the 6 months after birth the disease tends to get worse. It is important to emphasize that it does not prevent a woman from having children, but the woman must plan the pregnancy so that it occurs during periods of improvement in arthritis. One should be aware of the medications taken during this period, and it is therefore essential to follow up with a rheumatologist.
Diagnosis is made based on patient reports, as well as through family history analysis. To complement the diagnosis, exams such as MRIs, ultrasounds and blood tests are ordered in order to mainly verify the presence of serum rheumatoid factor.
Treatment is based on the use of immunosuppressive drugs that reduce inflammation and control the immune response. To reduce pain and inflammation more immediately, analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs are used. It is important to use medications indicated only by the rheumatologist and to have constant monitoring of this professional, since it is an incurable disease and its treatment works only as a way of control it.
In addition to drug treatment, physical exercise is essential for strengthening the patient's muscles. It is important that the exercises are recommended by a physiotherapist, thus avoiding exercises that can have a great impact on the affected areas.
by Vanessa dos Santos
Graduated in Biology
Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/saude/artrite-reumatoide.htm