Lupus Overlap Diseases - Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the joints become inflamed causing pain and swelling. The hands, feet and wrists are the most commonly affected but Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other parts of the body. It is a systemic disease which means it can affect and damage the whole body including internal organs.

The most common symptoms include joint swelling which often, but not always affect symmetrical joints, i.e. the same joints on both sides of the body; pain; joint stiffness in the mornings; poor sleep patterns; fatigue’ weight loss and flu like symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose with symptoms, a physical examination and the results of x-rays, scans and blood tests all being taken into account.

Treatments for Rheumatoid arthritis include medication to control inflammation and the progression of the disease including hydroxychloroquine and medication used to also treat other autoimmune diseases such as Lupus, as well as surgery to deal with structural damage. Supportive treatments such as physiotherapy and complementary therapies including massage and acupuncture may be of benefit to people suffering with Rheumatoid arthritis.

For more info please contact:

Arthritis Ireland
Web: www.arthritisireland.ie
Email: helpline@arthritisireland.ie

Arthritis Research (UK)
Web: www.arthritisresearchuk.org

Arthritis Care (UK)
Web: www.arthritiscare.org.uk