Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Research Paper Example The present research has identified that RA is an autoimmune disease that means the body immune system is attacking its own tissues. Our immune system uses antibodies to protect us against diseases and infections. However, if people have RA, the antibodies attack the joints. This progressive disease disables the functions of joints and eventually causes the destruction of bones and ligaments. Rheumatoid arthritis is a common rheumatic disease in women than in men. This disease starts at any age, usually after 40 and before 60 years of age. In some families, it transmits genetically from parents to children. It affects multiple family members as genetically inherited. This disease is most common in older people, but children and young adults can also get it. Research shows that there is no exact cause of RA. Doctors are not sure what triggers antibodies to attack the joints. Their research shows that the main cause of this disease is that a person’s immune system attacks own bo dy tissues and causes infections. RA may run in the family. Genes, environment, and hormones may cause this disease. People with rheumatoid arthritis experience chronic swelling, stiffness, redness, and pain in the joints that causes severe joint damage. Patients with this disease may feel tired, sick and sometimes suffer from high fever. It is very difficult to diagnose this disease, as its symptoms are same as other kinds of minor joint diseases and problems. There is no single test to detect this chronic disease. The full symptoms of this disease take time to develop. Common symptoms are painful and swollen joints, especially in hands, feet, and knees. Patients feel difficulty in moving joints.