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I suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Plainly put, it sucks. I have just put up with arthritis for years, but I want to know more about it. So I searched around for some answers as to what causes rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis symptoms, and how to cure rheumatoid arthritis.

What caused rheumatoid arthritis? The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. Even though infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi have long been suspected, none has been proven as the cause. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is a very active area of worldwide research. Some scientists believe that the tendency to develop rheumatoid arthritis may be genetically inherited. It is suspected that certain infections or factors in the environment might trigger the immune system to attack the body's own tissues, resulting in inflammation in various organs of the body such as the lungs or eyes. Scientists have some understanding of the factors that cause osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. These are the three most common forms of arthritis among older adults. But an exact cause is just not known.

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis? Arthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage. This cartilage normally protects the joint thereby allowing for smooth movement. Cartilage is also useful for absorbing shock when you put pressure on the particular joint - for example when you are walking. With the breakdown of the cartilage, the bones lose their protection and start to rub together thus causing the pain, swelling and stiffness. Some common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are: Joint pain and swelling, Stiffness particularly in the mornings, The feeling of warmth around a joint, Redness of skin around a joint, Inability to move the joint easily.

How can you cure rheumatoid arthritis? There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis aims to reduce inflammation in your joints in order to relieve pain and prevent or slow joint damage. Early and aggressive rheumatoid arthritis treatments may slow joint damage and help reduce the risk of disability. Treatment typically involves medications, though surgery may be necessary in cases of severe joint damage.

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