Rheumatoid Arthritis

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It is a systemic disease, which means it can affect other organs in the body as well.In rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune system attacks its own tissues, primarily the synovial membrane that lines the joints, leading to inflammation and damage to the joint, bone, cartilage and surrounding tissues.

It is estimated that about 1% of the population worldwide suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, and it is more common in women than men.

Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Common in Present Day?

Yes, rheumatoid arthritis is still a prevalent disease in present day. It affects millions of people worldwide, and the number of cases is increasing .....

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), rheumatoid arthritis affects about 1% of the population worldwide. However, the prevalence of the disease varies between countries and regions. In developed countries, the prevalence is estimated to be around 0.5-1%, while in developing countries, it is estimated to be around 0.2-0.4%. Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than men, with a female to male ratio of about 3:1.

According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Rheumatology in 2019, the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis in India is estimated to be around 0.5-1%, which is similar to the prevalence in developed countries.

Given India's population of over 1.3 billion people, this would mean that between 6.5 and 13 million people in India may be living with rheumatoid arthritis. However, it is important to note that these estimates are based on limited data and may not be entirely accurate.

It is also worth noting that rheumatoid arthritis is often underdiagnosed and undertreated in India, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare may be limited. As such, the true prevalence of the disease in India may be higher than current estimates suggest.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1.5 million adults in the United States have rheumatoid arthritis.

There has been extensive research on rheumatoid arthritis all over the world. Researchers are continually investigating the causes

Some recent studies have focused on Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. Genetics: Researchers are exploring the role of genetics in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis has a strong genetic component, and people with a family history of the disease are more likely to develop it.

2. Environmental factors: Studies have also looked at the role of environmental factors, such as smoking, in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Research has found that pollution, toxins and smoking can increase the risk of developing the disease and worsen its symptoms.

3. Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, obesity, and sedentary behavior, can increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. With the rise in sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits, the prevalence of the disease has increased

4. Aging population: As the population ages, the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis increases. The disease is more common in people over the age of 60.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can vary from person to person, and may come and go over time. However, some common symptoms of RA include:

1. Joint pain and stiffness: RA typically causes pain and stiffness in the joints, particularly in the hands, feet, and wrists. The pain may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity, and may improve with movement.

2. Joint swelling: RA can cause swelling in the joints, which can make them feel tender and warm to the touch.

3. Reduced range of motion: Over time, RA can cause the joints to become stiff, which can limit their range of motion.

4. Fatigue: Many people with RA experience fatigue, which can make it difficult to carry out everyday activities.

5. Fever: RA can cause a low-grade fever in some people.

6. Weight loss: Some people with RA may experience unintentional weight loss.

7. Eye problems: In some cases, RA can cause dry eyes, inflammation of the whites of the eyes, or other eye problems.

8. Lung problems: RA can cause inflammation and scarring in the lungs, which can lead to breathing difficulties.

   It is important to note that not everyone with RA will experience all of these symptoms, and some people may experience symptoms that are not listed here. If you are experiencing joint pain or any other symptoms of RA, it is important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options

taking supplements can be said as a natural way of treating Rheumatoid Arthritis

There are a few ingredients that may be helpful in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA),

Here are some examples:

1. Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with RA. Some studies have shown that omega-3 supplements can reduce the need for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can have side effects with long-term use.

2. Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a role in bone health, and low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of RA. Taking a vitamin D supplement may help improve bone health and reduce the risk of complications in people with RA.

3. Curcumin: Curcumin, found in the spice turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with RA. Some studies have suggested that curcumin supplements can reduce inflammation in the body, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.

4. Probiotics: Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria found in certain foods and supplements, may help improve gut health and reduce inflammation in the body. Some studies have suggested that probiotic supplements can reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in people with RA
5. Boswellia serrata : Commonly known as AKBA, is an herbal supplement that has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The resin of the Boswellia tree contains compounds known as boswellic acids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with RA.
6. Terminalia chebula: also known as Haritaki, is an Ayurvedic herb that has been traditionally used to treat a variety of health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The fruit of the Terminalia chebula tree contains compounds that are believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with RA.
7. Guggul extract : is an herbal supplement that has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The resin of the guggul tree contains compounds known as guggulsterones, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with RA
8. Piperine: is a compound found in black pepper that has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including potential benefits for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Piperine is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties ,Improving joint mobility,Enhancing the effectiveness of other supplements that may help reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with RA

The Advanced Herbs Plus is a dietary supplement offered by Nutrisage, a company that specializes in providing natural and holistic health solutions.It contains a blend of 10 herbs that are carefully selected for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  Advanced Herbs Plus contains a blend of natural herbs, including turmeric, guggul extract, haritaki, piperine,ginger root extract, that are believed to have a range of beneficial effects on managing your body auto immune system hence this condition.

Turmeric, for example, is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that may help support joint health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Ginger has similar anti-inflammatory properties and is often used to relieve digestive issues. 

Conclusion

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It is a systemic disease that can affect other organs in the body as well. It is estimated that about 1% of the population worldwide suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, and it is more common in women than men. The prevalence of the disease varies between countries and regions. There has been extensive research on rheumatoid arthritis cause like genetics, environmental factors, lifestyle factors, and the aging population in the development of the disease. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain and stiffness, joint swelling, reduced range of motion, fatigue, fever, weight loss, eye problems, and lung problems. Taking supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin D, and curcumin can be a natural way of managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.