Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of autoimmune disease, which means that the body itself attacks its own cells or tissues. For this disease, the attack focuses on the thin lining of the joint called the synovium, which results in fluid accumulation leading to inflammation and pain of the affected area. This disease is non-curable and irreversible, meaning that the damage caused by the disease can no longer be healed over time. However, the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can be treated. Although there is no known way to prevent the disease, progression of rheumatoid arthritis can be slowed or stopped by early treatment.
The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown although risk factors have been identified such as chronic tobacco smoking. This disease can be acquired by people of any age. Basically, identifying the risk may answer how to prevent rheumatoid arthritis. This will mean that those who are currently into smoking tobacco products need to taper down that bad habit and eventually quit. Another risk factor may be genetic where members of the family are affected with the disease. However, these are not proven, but it is safe to observe preventive measures on the triggers that might lead to the awakening of rheumatoid arthritis.
According to studies, to prevent rheumatoid arthritis is most likely in cohesion with preventing the occurrence of its signs and symptoms. Such prevention will enable the person to experience remissions or non-experience of the signs and symptoms of the disease. The length of time or duration for remission can be in weeks, months, and even years. So the best way to prevent rheumatoid arthritis is to adhere to the treatments for the signs and symptoms of the disease process and not the disease itself.
The main focus in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is to reduce the inflammation of the joint, which also results in extreme pain. The drugs of choice according to the experts are separated into two categories: rapid or fast-acting drugs, and the slow-acting drugs. The rapid-acting drugs are aspirin and corticosteroids. These are necessary especially in cases where there is extreme pain and inflammation. Inflammation indicates extreme damage if the pain is not addressed immediately. Another set of drugs to reduce pain and inflammation are methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine, which belong to the slow-acting drugs. These medications prevent rheumatoid arthritis from further destroying the joints.
Aside from medication, it is also advised that a healthy lifestyle be observed. Proper nutrition together with regular exercise is highly recommended. A therapist, depending upon the severity of the disease would recommend the exercises. Further, if the person is an avid smoker, it is highly advised that he or she should stop, otherwise the issue will continue to progress. In cases where there are problems with the joints, it is highly recommended to seek the doctor’s advice immediately so that the disease will be diagnosed accordingly. Once diagnosed, treatment will follow. Ultimately, this is to prevent further progression of the disease and damage of the joints, organs and other tissues of the body as well.