This article addresses some frequently asked questions about RA and encourage those experiencing symptoms to reach out to Dr McKinnon for evaluation and management.
What is RA?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common type of autoimmune arthritis. In Auto-immune conditions, your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In RA, this causes inflammation in the joints and other organs, causing joint pain, swelling, stiffness and abnormal flexibility of the joints.
What are the most common symptoms of RA?
RA affects the small joints in hands, wrists, ankles and feet. However, it can also affect larger joints and other organs. Morning stiffness and pain in small joints are the first symptoms of RA.
Who gets RA?
Around 75% of RA patients are women. Although RA symptoms usually start between ages 30 and 50, they can happen to people of any age, regardless of gender.
How do you diagnose RA?
Diagnosing RA requires a thorough evaluation by an expert rheumatologist, blood tests, and x-rays of various joints. Infrequently, MRIs are used to look for early joint damage.
Is there a cure for RA?
RA is a chronic condition and there is no cure at this time. However, RA can be treated. Early diagnosis and treatment can not only help with symptoms but can also prevent joint and other organ damage.
What are the treatment options for RA?
When it comes to treatment for RA, we have come a long way. There are many medications, including disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics and others. There is no way to know which treatment will work for a patient, and many end up changing their treatment at least once during their lifetime. Some patients might need a combination of multiple medications to achieve remission.
What does it mean to live with RA?
You will need regular follow up visits and serial blood tests to make sure your RA is in remission, and you are not developing side effects from your medications. A healthy lifestyle is a plus.
In some cases, dietary and lifestyle modifications, as well as supplements, may also be recommended to support overall health.
How can Direct Access Rheumatology help?
At Direct Access Rheumatology, Dr McKinnon specializes in the diagnosis and management of autoimmune diseases, including RA. She provides personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. From initial evaluation and diagnosis to ongoing management and follow-up, she is dedicated to providing compassionate and patient-centered care every step of the way. If you are experiencing symptoms of RA or have concerns about your joint health, contact Direct Access Rheumatology for evaluation and management. Don’t let RA control your life.
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