- Genetics may account for about 60% of your risk of developing RA.
- Some genes have been associcated with the onset and progression of RA.
RA is a chronic, progressive disease that can cause irreversible joint damage
- RA is a chronic condition, which means it’s for life.
- RA occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints.
- RA symptoms may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of physical function in areas, such as your hands, wrists, shoulders, knees, and feet. Over time, these symptoms can lead to irreversible joint damage.
- RA may result from a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and your immune system, even though the exact cause is unknown.
Did you know RA can lead to serious joint damage?
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Researchers now believe RA can begin to damage joints during the first year or two that a
person has the disease. That’s one reason why early diagnosis and management by a
rheumatologist are so important.
RA Symptoms
Physical Symptoms
- Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Weakness
- Worse joint stiffness after sleeping or prolonged sitting
The exact cause is unknown, but RA may result from a combination of factors
More studies need to be conducted examining the role environmental factors play in developing RA, however this is what we do know:
- Long-term smoking is associated with an increased risk of developing RA.
- Some lifestyle factors, such as diet, medications, and pollutants may increase one’s risk of developing RA.
- The body overproduces TNF-alpha and other proteins that promote inflammation. This contributes to RA symptoms including joint pain, swelling and stiffness.
Irreversible joint damage can happen slowly over time
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RA is a chronic, progressive disease that can cause irreversible joint damage
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