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Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the chronic medical conditions experienced by a lot of people by all ages. If you have been diagnosed or manifest some signs and symptoms of RA, then most probably you know the facts about rheumatoid arthritis. •Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. This is a type of arthritis which actually attacks its own immune system. The joints are mainly affected by RA, but organs might also be involved especially in severe cases and complications. •Rheumatoid arthritis has two classifications. Rheumatoid factor is one of the antibodies (immunoglobulin) that combine with other normal antibodies that are responsible for the normal functioning of the immune system. One classification of RA is seropositive which about 80% of adults with RA have positive result for rheumatoid factor. Seronegative RA is another type which affects 20% of the patients with RA; these people have negative results for rheumatoid factor. •Rheumatoid arthritis is prevalent in women than in men. Hormones and genetics are the predisposing factors in RA in women. Yet, men are more prone to have other types of arthritis just like the ankylosing spondylitis and gout formation. •Rheumatoid arthritis has several physical symptoms. Early signs may include warmth, swelling and pain on the area affected which often begin in the joints of the fingers, wrists, and feet. The inflammation is typically symmetrical (same joints on the both sides of the body). Rheumatoid nodules might be present. The patient may have morning stiffness and rigidity which actually last for an hour or more. Fatigue, fever, anorexia may as well be present. For severe cases, joint deformities and disabilities may caused by tendon, ligament, and cartilage damage. Rheumatoid arthritis is usually diagnosed by obtaining the patient's medical history and blood tests, as well as performing physical examination and imaging studies. Signs and symptoms of RA differ from one person to another, that's why rheumatologists make it to the point that the whole aspect of the disease is being monitored to have an accurate diagnosis for the patient. So, you now know the different facts about rheumatoid arthritis. Generally, it is still very important to have regular exercise and healthy diet in order to avoid the prevalence of RA and other diseases in the body. Do you know the importance of identity theft protection? You may need the best identity theft protection to stop your credit stealing.
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