What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This causes inflammation and can lead to joint damage and deformities over time.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease that causes inflammation around the body and commonly presents with pain in the joints. Untreated, RA can cause severe damage to the joints and their surrounding tissue. It can lead to heart, lung, or nervous system problems. Common symptoms include chronic pain, stiffness, tenderness, heat, and swelling in the joints. RA can make it hard to move and perform daily activities.”
Rheumatic Arthritis Awareness Day is observed every year on February 2 to help raise awareness about rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory condition that impacts the joints.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day Theme 2025
The main focus of Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day is to spread awareness about rheumatoid arthritis and encourage the fight against it. It’s an important day because it gives those affected by RA the opportunity to learn about early diagnosis and available treatments. The theme for this year has not been announced yet.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day Significance
The significance of Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day lies in the opportunity it provides for people to learn about the condition and its impact on those affected. RA is a condition that often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood in its early stages. Many individuals experience joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, but may not realise these symptoms point to something more serious.
By drawing attention to RA, Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day encourages individuals to seek medical advice and treatment early, which can help reduce long-term damage. It also serves as a reminder that chronic diseases like RA can lead to mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, due to the physical pain and lifestyle limitations they impose.
Moreover, the day promotes solidarity among RA patients and caregivers, encouraging them to connect and share experiences in a supportive environment. The awareness campaign also targets healthcare professionals, advocating for continuous research, better treatments, and more comprehensive care for individuals with the condition.
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Common Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis often presents with symptoms that can vary in severity from person to person, according to theNational Institutes of Health (NIH). The most common signs include:
i) Joint pain and swelling: The affected joints become tender, swollen, and warm to the touch. This is most common in the fingers, wrists, and knees.
ii) Stiffness: People with RA experience joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, which can last for hours.
iii) Fatigue: Chronic fatigue is another common symptom, with many individuals feeling physically drained even after adequate rest.
iv) Fever and weight loss: In some cases, RA can cause low-grade fever andweight loss due to inflammation in the body.
It’s crucial to see a doctor if any of these symptoms persist, as early intervention can help manage the disease and improve quality of life.
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