All about rheumatoid arthritis

Other effects, which occur less often, include neck pain and dry eyes and mouth. Very rarely, RA results in inflammation of the blood vessels, the lining of the lungs or the sac enclosing the heart. If you have RA, you may also be at increased risk for infections and gastrointestinal problems.

What causes it?
Although no one knows the precise causes of rheumatoid arthritis, it seems to develop as a result of an interaction of several factors, including genetics, environment and hormones. It does not run in families. Certain genes that are involved in the immune system are associated with a tendency to develop the disease, although there is no single 'rheumatoid arthritis gene.' Researchers think that something must happen to trigger the disease process in people who are genetically susceptible. The trigger is likely an infectious agent such as a virus or bacterium, but so far RA 'bugs' have eluded detection. However, it is not contagious.

Hormonal changes have also been proposed as culprits. These hormones, or possibly deficiencies or changes in certain hormones, may promote the development of RA in a genetically susceptible person who has been exposed to a triggering agent from the environment.

Contributing factors
Cold, wet weather may be a trigger for RA if you are already genetically predisposed. Rheumatologists claim that about two-thirds of people with RA begin their disease in the winter. Some people notice their arthritis gets worse when there is a sudden change in the weather. However, there is no evidence that a specific climate can prevent or reduce the effects. Moving to a different climate usually does not make a long-term difference to a person's rheumatoid arthritis.

How is it diagnosed?
Rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose in its initial stages, but an early diagnosis can be crucial to limiting its progress and severity. Some studies indicate that rheumatoid arthritis causes the most joint damage in the first two years.