Artritis reumatoid

Gambaran keseluruhan

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. It is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body's defence system turns against itself.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects about 1 in every 100 people worldwide. It is one of the most common autoimmune diseases.

Rheumatoid arthritis can start at any age, but it most often begins between the ages of 40 and 60. It is two to three times more common in women than in men. It can also affect children and older adults.

Gejala

Gejala biasa

• Pain and swelling in the joints, especially in the hands, wrists, and feet.
• Stiffness in the morning that lasts for more than 30 minutes.
• Tiredness (fatigue) that does not get better with rest.
• Warmth and redness around the joints.
• Difficulty moving joints, especially after rest.

Gejala pada kanak-kanak

• Pain and swelling in larger joints, like the knees, ankles, and elbows.
• High fever that comes and goes, often with a rash.
• Growing pains that are worse in the morning.
• Limping or avoiding using a limb.

Gejala pada orang dewasa yang lebih tua

• Joint pain and stiffness that may be less severe than in younger people.
• More general symptoms, such as weight loss, low-grade fever, and feeling unwell.
• Difficulty with daily activities due to stiffness and pain.

Punca

Punca utama

• The immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and pain.
• It is not fully understood why this happens, but it is likely a combination of genes and environmental triggers.

Faktor risiko

• Having a family history of rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune diseases.
• Being a woman (the condition is more common in women).
• Smoking cigarettes, which is a major trigger.
• Having certain infections, such as the Epstein-Barr virus, may increase risk.

Bila perlu berjumpa doktor

Jumpa doktor dengan segera jika:

• If you have sudden, severe joint pain and swelling that does not improve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen).
• If you have a fever along with joint pain and swelling.

Buat temujanji rutin jika:

• If you have joint pain and stiffness that lasts for more than a few weeks, especially if it is worse in the morning.
• If you feel very tired and have joint pain without a clear reason.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose rheumatoid arthritis based on your symptoms, a physical exam, and tests that check for inflammation and antibodies. They may also use imaging scans to look at joint damage.

Ujian yang mungkin dilakukan

• Blood tests for rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibodies.
• Blood tests to check for inflammation, like CRP (C-reactive protein) and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate).
• X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans to see joint damage.

Apa yang diharapkan semasa temujanji anda

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and family history. They will examine your joints for swelling, warmth, and tenderness. You may have to get blood drawn and possibly have an imaging test. The process can take a few visits, but it is important to get a clear diagnosis.

Rawatan

Treatment aims to reduce pain and inflammation, prevent joint damage, and improve quality of life. It usually includes a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Penjagaan diri di rumah

• Rest your joints when they are painful or swollen.
• Apply heat (like a warm towel) to loosen stiff joints, or cold packs to reduce swelling.
• Do gentle exercises, such as stretching or swimming, to keep joints moving.
• Use assistive devices like jar openers or button hooks to make daily tasks easier.

Rawatan perubatan

Doctors may prescribe disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow disease progression. They may also use biologics, which are targeted treatments given by injection or infusion. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids can help with pain and swelling but are usually used for short periods. Always follow your doctor's advice and do not stop medications without talking to them.

Bila pembedahan dipertimbangkan?

If joint damage is severe and other treatments have not helped, surgery such as joint replacement (for example, hip or knee) or joint fusion may be considered. Your doctor will discuss the options if needed.

Hidup dengan keadaan ini

Living with rheumatoid arthritis means managing ups and downs. Some days you may feel good, and other days you may have more pain. It helps to pace yourself: balance rest and activity, and ask for help when you need it.

Tip gaya hidup

• Get enough sleep and rest to fight fatigue.
• Stop smoking – it can make the disease worse.
• Learn stress management techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness.
• Stay active with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling.

Diet dan senaman

No special diet cures rheumatoid arthritis, but eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation. Some people find that avoiding certain foods (like red meat or processed foods) helps. Regular exercise, especially water-based activities, can improve joint flexibility and strength without putting too much stress on joints.

Kesihatan mental dan kesejahteraan emosi

Living with chronic pain can be emotionally challenging. It is common to feel frustrated, sad, or anxious. If you are struggling, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. You are not alone, and support is available.

Pencegahan

Rheumatoid arthritis cannot be prevented completely, but you can reduce your risk by not smoking and by having a healthy lifestyle. If you have early symptoms, getting treatment quickly can help prevent joint damage.

Vaksin

There are no vaccines to prevent rheumatoid arthritis, but staying up to date with recommended vaccines (like for flu and pneumonia) is important because the disease and some treatments can increase infection risk.

Program saringan

There is no routine screening for rheumatoid arthritis in the general population. If you have a family history or symptoms, talk to your doctor.

Komplikasi

Jika tidak dirawat

• Permanent joint damage and deformity.
• Increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Lung inflammation or scarring (pulmonary fibrosis).
• Eye inflammation that can affect vision.
• Osteoporosis (weak bones) due to inflammation and steroid use.

Pandangan jangka panjang

With early and effective treatment, most people with rheumatoid arthritis can lead active lives. Treatment has improved greatly in recent years, and many people achieve remission (few or no symptoms). It is important to work with your healthcare team and stay positive. While there is no cure, you can manage the condition well.

Cari sokongan

Organisasi antarabangsa

• Arthritis International ↗
• National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) ↗

Organisasi tempatan

• Arthritis Foundation ↗
• Versus Arthritis (UK) ↗ · United Kingdom
• Arthritis Society (Canada) ↗ · Canada

Talian bantuan

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