Issue Date: September 28, 2008
Arthritis: Be alert
Women are most at risk.
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Most rheumatoid arthritis sufferers are women.
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Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, affects about 1.3 million Americans, even some children. Most (70%) of those who get it are women. The illness strikes when the immune system goes a bit haywire. The cells of the body responsible for protecting us from dangers such as infections begin to see the lining of the joints as a potential threat, so they attack, thereby creating an intense inflammatory reaction in the joints that leads to pain, swelling, and eventual destruction and deformity of tissues.
Those with RA also are at risk of developing complications with internal organs (such as the lungs) because of the overactive state of their immune systems.
For a long time, sufferers had only medicines that would merely relieve symptoms. But in the past couple of decades, "disease-modifying" drugs have become available. Not only will these drugs relieve symptoms, but they also can slow the damage to the joints. The sooner the diagnosis is made, the sooner the treatment can start, preserving the joints.
It's important to see your doctor if you develop joint pain, stiffness or swelling. RA varies widely among patients, so treatment needs to be tailored. Talking to your doctor about the various options available is your best bet to get the treatment you need.
Tedd Mitchell, M.D., is president and CEO of Dallas' Cooper Clinic. He writes HealthSmart every week.
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