09/12/2024
What is Rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissue causing chronic inflammation.
This form of arthritis affects more than joints as it can also damage other systems of the body such as the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. (Bone erosion and joint deformity are caused by painful swelling of the joint lining and is not associated with wear-and-tear damage of osteoarthritis.) The actual cause of rheumatoid arthritis is still unknown.
However, genetics is thought to play a part (although genes don't actually cause the disease, genes can make you more susceptible to environmental factors — such as infection with certain viruses and bacteria — that may trigger the disease). The disease typically starts in small joints such as fingers and toes and progresses to the wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips, and shoulders.
Symptoms generally occur in the same joints on both sides of the body and include:
-Tender, warm, swollen joints
-Joint stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity
-Fatigue
-Fever
-Weight loss
Things to keep in mind:
-women are more likely to develop the condition than men
-can occur at any age, but most commonly between ages 40 - 60
-family history can increase the risk
-smoking increases risk and disease severity
-environmental exposures such as asbestos or silica may increase the risk
-obesity increases risk
Using safe, natural and holistic approaches, like the ones we use here at Holistic Health & Chiropractic of Frankfort, have been life changing for so many people.
If you, or someone you know, suffers from rheumatoid arthritis pain feel free to reach out and schedule an appointment. We will do our best to get you back to your busy life. CALL (815) 469-7472 or visit our website NOW to schedule your consultation today!
https://holisticfrankfort.com/