RA Overview & Facts
- Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than one million people in the US.
- RA can worsen over time and can cause permanent joint damage.
- It's important to know your treatment options.
Basics
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a
complex disease of the immune system that affects more than one million Americans.
With RA, the body mistakenly attacks healthy joints, causing joint pain, swelling,
stiffness, and damage that can get worse over time.
RA is a serious disease, and in some patients permanent joint damage can begin to happen within the first 12 to 24 months, though for
some people, it can take much longer. As RA progresses, the pain, stiffness and
joint damage can make even simple tasks seem difficult.
Finding effective treatment for RA is essential. If your primary physician thinks
you have rheumatoid arthritis, you should
see a rheumatologist (a doctor with specialized knowledge and training in
the diagnosis and treatment of RA). Getting effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis
is essential, not only to help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, but also
to help prevent the joint damage from getting worse.
HUMIRA Uses
HUMIRA is a prescription medicine used alone, with methotrexate, or with certain
other medicines to reduce the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe rheumatoid
arthritis in adults, may prevent further damage to your bones and joints, and may
help your ability to perform daily activities.
Talk to your rheumatologist
to see if HUMIRA could be right for you.