Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the joints, as well as the surrounding tissues. Autoimmune diseases happen when the body mistakenly attacks it’s own tissues. Thus, rheumatoid arthritis, when uncontrolled and untreated, can affect other organs and cause systemic inflammation; this is referred to as rheumatoid disease. Symptoms can vary between people, you can learn more online.

Usually, rheumatoid arthritis affects the joints on the fingers and toes. However, it can be a systemic disease because it can affect multiple organs of the body. Because of inflammation, the affected part(s) may cause pain and stiffness noticeable in the morning upon waking up, and redness and swelling, particularly on the joints. Other signs and symptoms include fatigue, lack of appetite and low-grade fever. The signs and symptoms of the disease may depend on what stage it has progressed to. When left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis may destroy cartilages, bones, and ligaments, and can even cause deformity of the bones. This disease affects women three times more often than it affects men. Often, rheumatoid arthritis starts at the age of 40, and before 60 years of age.

The cause of rheumatoid is indefinite. Viruses, bacteria and fungi have long been suspected to cause the disease; however, none have been proven. Some medical researchers believe that it is genetically inherited. Also, some say that infections or factors in the environment can trigger this disease, especially when the person has a high susceptibility rate. When this autoimmunity becomes present in your body, it specifically attacks your joints at first and, if left untreated, it may progress to other parts of your body. Smoking has been found to contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis.

Although medical researchers are not sure of what really causes rheumatoid arthritis, it is very important to avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption and environmental hazards that will contribute to the development of such disease.  If you have rheumatoid arthritis, treatments must be taken to control it. It is very important that you personally know what activities, foods, and other triggers precipitate an attack. It is also important to give your immune system a boost, in order to become resistant to infection and prevent the progression of autoimmune disease. A healthy lifestyle, that includes balanced nutrition, exercise, and a positive outlook, will help you prevent or lessen the effects of rheumatoid arthritis.