Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the second most common type of arthritis. It usually affects women between the ages of 25 and 50; there is a juvenile form that can affect children. The disease commonly affects the fingers and toes first. Other susceptible joints are the wrists, ankles, knees and spine. Unlike Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis often affects most joints symmetrically (on both sides of the body). The affected joints become red and swollen, causing stiffness and reduced function. Over time, the joints degrade, resulting in pain and further inflammation. Let's explore common symptoms associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis as well as the top treatments. 

What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but heredity does seem to play a role. It is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks its own joint tissues. This causes joint damage and erosion over time. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis come and go. The amount of joint destruction can vary, and joint pain can move throughout the body. Attacks can be triggered by viral infections, food sensitivities, or stress.

What Symptoms Are Associated With Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Swelling and redness of the joints, along with joint pain and stiffness, are the most common indications of rheumatoid arthritis. Swelling and inflammation can contribute to joint deformities over time, creating protrusions which interfere with the proper functioning of the joint. 

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause symptoms beyond the affected joints. Common symptoms include poor appetite, fatigue, low-grade fever, and weight loss. Often, RA will affect both sides of the body, for example, both the left and right ankles. In some cases, the disease can affect other organs, like the heart, eyes and lungs. Many people with RA will have blood work that is positive for rheumatoid factor (RF), and have high C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels.

Are There Treatments For Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Conventional Methods

There are many strong drugs currently used to treat RA, and each has a variety of side effects. Common medications include: methotrexate, sulfasalazine, infliximab, and leflunomide. Most are targeted at reducing the immune response in the body; thus, they can actually increase the risk of infections. Some drugs are also known to deplete vitamins and minerals. Individuals taking medication for this condition should consult their health professional about these interactions.

Dietary Considerations

Avoid consuming any foods to which you are sensitive. Some people with arthritis report sensitivity to nightshade vegetables. These foods include tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and green peppers. They contain a substance called solanine that interferes with the muscle’s enzyme system, causing pain. Other common food sensitivities are dairy, wheat/gluten, corn, and soy. Digestive enzymes can help break down food more effectively. However, they may not resolve every digestive concern.

There are a number of different dietary approaches to RA. Most people’s diets cause an acidic environment. To buffer the acid in the tissues, essential minerals are stripped from the body, including those in the joints. An Alkaline Diet helps prevent worsening of symptoms and maintain proper mineral balance in the joints. In addition to an alkaline diet, certain foods may help support joint health. Consider increasing pineapple, ginger, and turmeric. Sulfur-rich foods include eggs, garlic, and onions. Flax seeds provide fiber, while ocean fish provide essential fatty acids. All of these foods contain substances that can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Iron from supplemental sources may aggravate arthritis; see our Iron article for dietary sources. Fluoride in drinking water disrupts collagen and may contribute to arthritis. Drinking plenty of filtered water can help flush toxins out of the body and promote healthy joint fluid.

Topical Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis

People sometimes apply juniper or St. John's wort oil to affected joints. These oils may help ease discomfort and stiffness. Topical MSM may also help support joint comfort. Joint creams and tablets with homeopathic remedies like Rhus-t, arnica, and sulphur may also be helpful. Hydrotherapy with hot compresses or baths can also provide symptomatic relief. Alternating hot and cold treatments can help bring down swelling and clear away some of the toxic build-up.

Supplements for Reducing Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Adding Fish Oil is a great way to help reduce inflammation in the body and provide essential fatty acids for joint repair. Curcumin, Bromelain, and Boswelia can all help to reduce the underlying inflammation that is triggering joint degredation. Devil’s Claw is particularly successful at reducing inflammation in degenerative conditions. Glucosamine and Chondroitin work well together to help provide the body with the building blocks required for joint repair. Vitamin C, and Collagen can also provide essential building blocks for repair. There are a number of combination products that provide several of the above recommendations in a single product to help make taking supplements easy.