Stiffness, swelling, and persistent pain in your joints should not be taken lightly. Aside from making everyday tasks more complex, these could also be signs of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is also called autoimmune arthritis because it occurs when your autoimmune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues.
When your autoimmune system targets your joints, it could cause joint inflammation,which leads to swelling. This type of chronic arthritis can affect the joints in your knees, feet, ankles, wrists, hands, and even your fingers. In most cases, RA occurs in the same joints on both sides of the body. This makes it different from other types of arthritis.
In this blog, we will discuss what causes RA, symptoms you should look out for, and treatments you can rely on. At Physicians Group LLC, we are committed to helping patients suffering from joint pain caused by car accidents. If a car crash triggers RA symptoms, our team can help you manage them effectively.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes
Various factors can cause Rheumatoid arthritis. Genes, environmental triggers, and lifestyle can increase the chances of this inflammatory arthritis.
Genetic Risk
Unfortunately, some people inherit genes that increase the chances of rheumatoid arthritis. If you have genetic markers like HLA-DR4, you may be more at risk of developing RA. Aside from specific genetic markers, if your family has a history of RA, there’s a high chance you can also have it.
Environmental and Occupational Triggers
Based on studies in arthritis research, harmful substances in the environment and workplaces can contribute to RA. Silica, asbestos, and other pollutants can trigger immune system dysfunction, which can lead to rheumatoid arthritis. Bacteria and viruses in the natural environment can also cause abnormal immune responses.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle choices are also among the most decisive factors that can trigger RA. For example, smoking can increase disease severity and worsen joint inflammation. Excess weight because of obesity can cause pressure on your joints. This can accelerate the development of RA.
Hormonal Changes
Numerous studies claim that women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, due to hormonal changes. Doctors will ask if a woman is already in menopause when doing an arthritis diagnosis.
Joint Injuries
Joint injuries caused by car crashes and other serious accidents can also trigger RA. However, fractures, strains, and repetitive trauma can only trigger autoimmune arthritis if you’re already at risk of developing it.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms and Signs
Identifying rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can help you plan how you can get treatment. RA can cause severe pain, stiffness, and swelling that affect people’s daily lives. While there’s no arthritis cure, understanding these symptoms can help with arthritis prevention and management.
Early Symptoms
- Arthritis pain in wrists, hands, or knees.
- Swelling, redness, and unusual warmth around affected joint areas.
- Unexpected fatigue that makes even simple tasks feel exhausting.
- Stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes, usually in the morning.
Worsening Symptoms
- Fever, weight loss, and discomfort from inflammation.
- Frequent arthritis flare-ups where stiffness and pain worsen.
- Weak grip and reduced range of motion.
- Worsening mobility because of joint damage.
Advanced Symptoms
- Chronic pain that needs long-term rheumatology care.
- Deformities in joints due to cartilage and bone erosion.
- Development of rheumatoid nodules: firm lumps near affected joints.Increased risk of eye, lung, and heart conditions.
There is no cure for RA or other types of arthritis. However, effective joint pain relief options exist. You just need to find the best treatment that can give you arthritis relief and help slow disease progression.
Effective Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatments
When managing RA, a combination of treatments is needed. A mix of arthritis medication, therapies, and lifestyle changes can help relieve the symptoms and slow its development.
Medications to Relieve Symptoms
- DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) can slow RA progression and protect joints.
- Biological medications can reduce inflammation by targeting the immune system.
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) provide arthritis pain relief by reducing inflammation.
- Corticosteroids can immediately ease symptoms but are only used for short periods.
Therapies and Exercises
- Physical and occupational arthritis therapy can improve movement and daily function.
- Low-impact arthritis exercises, such as swimming, cycling, or yoga, improves muscle strength and flexibility.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- A healthy arthritis diet should include food rich in omega-3, fresh vegetables, and turmeric.
- Weight management can ease the strain on joints.
- Stress control is essential in long-term arthritis management.
Home Remedies
- Heat and cold therapies can ease stiffness and lessen swelling.
- Arthritis supplements such as glucosamine, fish oil, and chondroitin can relieve pain.
- Natural arthritis remedies, such as herbal treatments and acupuncture, provide additional support.
Surgeries
- In advanced arthritis, surgeries, including joint repair or replacement, are needed to improve mobility and provide long-term relief.
Each of these arthritis treatments can help manage symptoms. But, it would still be better if you could work with a medical professional to give you arthritis relief tips tailored to your needs.
Trusted Auto Accident-Related Rheumatoid Arthritis Care
Joint trauma from a car crash can trigger or worsen symptoms in people who are predisposed to rheumatoid arthritis or who already experience RA symptoms. At Physicians Group LLC, we understand auto accidents can increase joint pain and even increase chances of RA development.
That’s why we provide accurate diagnosis, personalized arthritis treatment, pain management solutions, and minimally invasive procedures. Our arthritis support can help you relieve pain and regain mobility.
Do you need assistance with your RA after a car accident? Don’t hesitate to call us. Our team will be with you, ensuring you receive the help you need to regain your quality of life.