(NC)-September is arthritis month in Canada - a time to raise awareness about a condition that affects more than four million Canadians. One of the most destructive types of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - a chronic, progressive and disabling disease, affecting approximately one out of every hundred Canadians. The disease commonly develops in early adulthood and affects nearly twice as many Canadian women as men.

RA is a very visible disease, but what many Canadians do not realize is that RA is much more than just painful joints. It can have a serious impact on a person’s life and well-being, especially if it is not recognized, diagnosed and treated early enough.

What are the warning signs of RA?

. Morning stiffness that lasts for longer than 30 minutes

. Pain and/or swelling in three or more joints at the same time

. Fatigue

. Pain in the same joints on both sides of your body, also known as symmetrical pattern

. Possible fever and weight loss

Early diagnosis key

To date, there is no known cure for RA; however, a number of treatment options are available to patients who have RA. Treatment for RA should begin as early as possible to improve the chances of minimizing progressive joint damage caused by the disease.

Treatment options

Treatment with a newer class of medications called anti-TNFs, such as Enbrel, Humira and Remicade, can actually slow or stop the disease progression.

If you think you or a loved one may have rheumatoid arthritis, talk to your doctor about treatments available; your healthcare professional can work with you to determine the best treatment plan.

Credit: www.newscanada.com

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