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What Are the 4 Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis_

Rheumatoid arthritis falls under the category of auto-immune diseases wherein the bodyu2019s immune mechanism attacks its own parts. The lining of the joints, known as the synovium, is what is affected by this particular condition. <br>

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What Are the 4 Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis_

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  1. What Are the 4 Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

  2. What Are the 4 Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis falls under the category of auto-immune diseases wherein the body’s immune mechanism attacks its own parts. The lining of the joints, known as the synovium, is what is affected by this particular condition. However, the condition progresses eventually to affect more than just the synovium – the joints and cartilages too get affected. The condition is painful and needs prompt treatment.

  3. Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis

  4. Stage 1 RA progresses through 4 stages. Stage 1: ● In this stage, the joint lining or the synovium is affected. ● The patient will complain of pain and swelling in the affected joint; joint mobility too might be affected. The bone itself does not suffer damage at this stage. ● Early treatment is crucial and the treating doctor might start the patient on methotrexate. Methotrexate is a drug that works by modifying the immune mechanism.There are also other similar drugs the doctor might prescribe. ● Along with medication which includes pain killers, the patient may also start physiotherapy. ● In some cases, steroids may be prescribed

  5. Stage 2 Stage 2: ● The symptoms worsen and the duration of the symptoms is also longer. ● In this stage, the cartilage might get affected. This results in reduction in mobility. ● The doctor may add another class of drugs (to the ones the patient is already on) called biologic response modifiers.

  6. Stage 3 Stage 3: ● This marks the beginning of the severe stage. The condition starts affecting the bones which begin to undergo changes. ● Visible deformation in the affected joint may be observed. ● The patient may experience loss of balance along with symptoms from the previous two stages. ● The doctor may introduce a class of drugs called Janus kinase inhibitors.

  7. Stage 4 Stage 4: ● This is called end stage RA. Characterized by severe loss of mobility, in this stage the bones fuse together and the ability of the patient to perform tasks independently is affected. ● Patient can use assistive devices to make routine tasks easier. ● The doctor may suggest joint replacement surgery at this stage. ● Along with the medications given above, the doctor will also guide the patient on other factors which might affect treatment. These include quitting smoking, losing weight, and other applicable lifestyle changes.

  8. Reach Out for Help ● Being diagnosed with RA can be quite overwhelming. It may even lead to depression and anxiety. But the first thing to realize is that no one has to deal with it alone. ● Talking to family and friends is good for stress relief and helps with coming to terms with the condition. ● Medical help is always available and eventually patients will realize that the condition can be managed. This will however take time so it is important not to rush things or expect instant results. ● Different strategies work for different people and it is necessary to find what suits one best. ● Indulging in enjoyable activities will help with stress relief so it is necessary to set some time aside for that. ● Fatigue is also common and rest is important during these times. ● RA can be managed and best results are obtained when treatment is started early. As medical sciences keep improving, the prognosis for RA is constantly getting better. With the right treatment, it is definitely possible for someone with RA to lead a fulfilling life.

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