Rheumatoid Arthritis affects some 1.3 million Americans, including many children. It is an inflammatory autoimmune condition – affecting the knees, elbows, wrists and ankles. Most people affected with rheumatoid arthritis are women, and it’s more common in the elderly, but can affect anyone at any age.
Here are ten facts you might not know about Rheumatoid Arthritis:
1. Geography plays a part in rheumatoid arthritis risk factor.
It may seem strange, but the further you get from the equator, the higher your risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Likewise, living at a higher altitude between the ages of 15-30 also seems to play a part.
Researchers believe that lack of sunlight – and the vitamin D that comes with it – can increase the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis is a relatively new condition
Despite studying the remains of thousands of skeletons and mummies, scientists have never found evidence of Rheumatoid Arthritis in ancient societies. In fact, Rheumatoid Arthritis does not seem to appear in the Old World until after Christopher Columbus discovered America in 1492.
Although this has not been conclusively proven, scientists believe that some environmental factors brought about the condition.
3. There is no known cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation in the joints, and preventing deformity from the deterioration of joints. Early, aggressive treatment can halt the progress of the disease. Treatment usually includes a combination of medications, rest, exercise to strengthen the joints, diet, and education.
4. Rheumatoid Arthritis used to be the “wasting disease”.
If you’ve ever read a historical text where a character got the “wasting disease”, then they were probably talking about Rheumatoid Arthritis. It was thought that exercise would only damage joints further, so those with the disease were encouraged to lie as still as possible. Combined with the appetite loss caused by the inflammation, their muscles would eventually atrophy.
5. Invest in a good mattress and pillow
One of the biggest complaints of people with Rheumatoid Arthritis is an inability to sleep because of discomfort. A decent mattress and pillow can make a huge difference to sleep quality. You can also use pillows or soft toys as arm and neck rests.
6. Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis could make you eligible for disability benefits
If you are unable to work because of your Rheumatoid Arthritis you could be eligible for monthly Social Security Disability benefits.
7. People with Rheumatoid Arthritis should take lots of vitamins
In particular, vitamin C, D, and B-12, Omega 3, iron and, calcium. If you can’t get enough through your diet, consider supplements.
8. Rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t just affect the joints
It can spread to the heart, skin, blood vessels, eyes and other organs. An unfortunate fact about Rheumatoid Arthritis means that people who have this condition are twice as likely to die as those who don’t.
9. Smoking can trigger rheumatoid arthritis
If you needed any further proof that smoking is bad for you, the fact is that smokers are more likely to have rheumatoid arthritis than non-smokers. It may be that certain genes may react with cigarette smoke to trigger the onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis in some people.
10. Rush-hour traffic could be contributing to Rheumatoid Arthritis
A 2009 Harvard study linked the particles found in gas emissions from cars to Rheumatoid Arthritis. The study followed 50,000 women looking at the relationship between gas emissions and the disease. It was found that women living within 0.031 miles of a major road were the most at risk.
What other strange facts do you know about rheumatoid arthritis? Share them with us in the comments section.
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