Rheumatoid Arthritis

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of many types of autoimmune disorders, which develop when the immune system isn’t working properly.

In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks and destroys cells in your joints in the same way it would defend your body from an invading bacterium or virus.

The cells under attack are in the synovium. This tissue lines the inner surfaces of your joints and produces lubricating fluid to keep the joints moving freely. The synovium also helps support the health of cartilage and bones in your joints.

The immune system attack on the synovium triggers inflammation, resulting in joint swelling and pain. The continual inflammation eventually destroys cartilage and the bone beneath, causing permanent joint damage and deformity.

What symptoms might I experience with rheumatoid arthritis?

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Joint pain
• Swollen joints
• Stiffness
• Loss of function
• Joint distortion
• Chronic fatigue
• Low-grade fever
• Loss of appetite

Complications of rheumatoid arthritis include Sjögren's syndrome and rheumatoid nodules (small lumps under the skin).

Initially, rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect small joints like those in your fingers, feet, and wrists. As the condition progresses, it starts to cause problems with larger joints such as your knees, hips, shoulders, ankles, and elbows.

When you have rheumatoid arthritis, the sooner you get a diagnosis and begin your treatment program, the better your quality of life is likely to be.

What treatments might I need for rheumatoid arthritis?

Your provider at Arthritis Northwest PLLC designs a personalized treatment plan for you that takes into account the severity of your rheumatoid arthritis and your individual needs. Treatments may include:

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is essential to prevent your joints from seizing up and keep the supporting muscles strong.

Injections

Steroid injections can reduce joint inflammation and relieve pain.

DMARDs

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and slow down or potentially prevent further joint damage.

Biologics

Biologics are drugs that use a targeted approach to adjust your faulty immune system response. They can decrease the severity of your symptoms and slow down joint deterioration.

Arthritis Northwest PLLC has a comfortable infusion suite on-site for the delivery of drugs like DMARDs and biologics.

For timely diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and access to the latest treatments, call Arthritis Northwest PLLC today to book an appointment or visit us online.