Causes, Symptoms & Cures For Rheumatoid Arthritis

Genes And Environmental Factors

As discussed, an individual's genes may not cause rheumatoid arthritis, but it can make them more susceptible to developing it. Environmental factors such as a highly inflammatory diet may activate or trigger the disease. Certain viruses and bacteria may also trigger the disease as they weaken the immune system, making it easier for other conditions to develop. Individuals who have been diagnosed with other autoimmune conditions such as lupus, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis are at an increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, as their immune system is already compromised.

Complications

Being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis increases the risk of developing other diseases. The most common of these are osteoporosis, dry mouth and eyes, heart problems, lymphoma, lung disease, an abnormal body composition, carpal tunnel syndrome, infections, and rheumatoid nodules. Many of these complications are due to the increased inflammation in other areas of the body, which causes acidity or an imbalanced blood pH in which disease thrives. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis often have more body fat compared to lean muscle even if their body mass index is healthy.