Arthritis Arthritis Basics

Introduction to Rheumatoid Arthritis

However, the damaging effects don't stop there. Rheumatoid arthritis is considered a systemic disease, meaning it can affect other parts of the body as well. It can harm virtually every organ or system in the body including the heart, lungs, kidneys, blood vessels and skin.

Long-Lasting Effects
Although the disease is chronic, meaning it can last for years, its symptoms actually wax and wane. There are times when the disease will be active, which is referred to as a flare. There are also times when people with rheumatoid arthritis will experience no symptoms, and those episodes can last for years.

Despite its cyclical nature, rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive illness. If the inflammation is not stopped or slowed down with treatment early, it can cause extensive joint damage and long term disability. Many people with rheumatoid arthritis have difficulty carrying out normal activities associated with daily living, including simple things like standing, dressing themselves, going to the bathroom and carrying out household chores.

The debilitating symptoms can also interfere with people's ability to perform their jobs. As many as half of those with rheumatoid arthritis are no longer able to work ten to 20 years after their condition is diagnosed. Nationwide, rheumatoid arthritis and related arthritic conditions are considered a major cause of disability in the United States, costing the U.S. economy more than 124 billion dollars per year in medical care and indirect expenses such as lost wages and production.

Help is Available
Rheumatoid arthritis has been a primary focus of research for many decades, and the treatments now available have dramatically improved outcomes for patients. Many of these therapies have made it possible to stop or at least slow down the progression of the joint damage, especially if started early.

Arthritis self-management programs also play an important role in helping people learn how to cope with the pain, as well as the other effects of the disease. Research shows that these programs can lead to a reduction in pain and can help people remain active and learn to cope better physically, emotionally and mentally. Giving people the tools they need to manage their condition and take care of themselves has proven useful in helping patients learn to lead independent and productive lives.

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