Rheumatoid arthritis, commonly referred to as RA, is a persistent inflammatory disorder that distresses tissues, organs and joints, producing inflammation. The inflammation can also affect the lungs and pericardium, and produce nodular lesions in the subcutaneous tissue under the skin. Roughly 1 percent of the world's population is afflicted with RA and it is seen more frequently in people aged 40 and above, although it can affect the younger populace as well. The core symptoms of RA are pain, stiffness and swelling in the hands, wrists, knees, ankles, feet and neck. Usually both sides of the body are affected. In severe, but rare cases, it can affect the eyes, lungs and heart.
Symptom Overview
The symptoms of RA vary from time to time, depending on the degree of tissue inflammation. When the tissue is irritated, the disease is active. When the inflammation subsides, it is considered inactive. RA can go into submission, with or without treatment, for weeks, months or years. When the disease is inactive, symptoms subside. When it is active, symptoms reappear. Symptoms include an extreme loss of energy and fatigue, low-grade fever, muscle and joint aches, stiffness and a decrease in appetite. Stiffness is most often seen in the morning and after long periods of rest. Day-to-day life is often negatively affected, especially as the condition worsens. Opening jars, turning doorknobs and brushing hair can cause severe pain. Rarely, rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joint responsible for the movement of the vocal cords, the cricoarytenoid joint. This will cause a change in the tone and bass of the voice, and in severe cases can cause permanent hoarseness.
Effects on Body Organs
RA is a systemic disease, which means that the inflammation in the joints can spread to the organs. The eyes and mouth can become inflamed, causing severe dryness. This is called Sjogren's Syndrome. RA impacts also can affect lung and heart tissue, leading to Pleuritis and Pericarditis. Pleuritis, or rheumatoid inflammation of the lining of the lungs, causes deep breathing problems, chest pains, shortness of breath and chronic cough. Pericarditis, the inflammation of the tissue around the heart, causes extreme pain in the chest.
Effects on Blood Cells
Rheumatoid also affects the body cells. It will drastically reduce the red blood cells, causing anemia. As the disease progresses, the number of red blood cells will decrease even further. A decrease in white blood cells is associated with Felty's Syndrome, or an enlarged spleen. The risk of infection increases greatly as the number white blood cells decrease, since white blood cells are the body's natural defense again infection.
Rheumatoid Nodules
Rheumatoid nodules are hard lumps that develop under the skin near RA-affected joints on the hands, fingers, elbows and knees. The size varies from person to person. The largest on record is roughly the size of a walnut. Sometimes the nodule will move, but more often, it is firmly attached to tendons. The nodules can also form on the vocal cords and body organs. There is usually no pain connected to the nodules, but they can put pressure on nerves, limiting movement. Nodules found on body organs may influence organ function.
Synovitis
The synovial membrane lines joints and tendons. When this becomes inflamed, it is called synovitis. Synovitis is a chronic pain disorder distinguished by limited movement due to swelling, tenderness and stiffness. Because of the increased blood flow to the joint, it will feel warm to the touch. Synovitis is a dire issue related to rheumatoid arthritis because the cells in the membrane divide and multiply. The new cells spread to other parts of the body and release enzymes into the joint that cause more pain and irritation. If this continues for an extended period of time, the enzymes will ultimately digest the cartilage and bone around the joint, leading to chronic pain.
Tags: blood cells, white blood, white blood cells, also affect, cells will, chronic pain