How Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Be Prevented or Delayed Essay

Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Hereditary, and can the onset of this disease be prevented or delayed in any way? Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the mobile joints. It appears to be an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body’s own immune system produces antibodies, which attack its tissues. This results in inflammation and pain in varying degrees. It should not be confused with Osteoarthritis, which is caused by the ‘wear and tear’ of joints (Lahita, 2001). Signs and symptoms RA can be very difficult to diagnose since it can often mimic symptoms of other diseases and illnesses or flare and fade intermittently. However, the symptoms may present as hard to heal injuries, numbness in the hands (which is often†¦show more content†¦Causes The causes of RA have been disputed in the past, but as ground-breaking research continues steadily, more clarity about the cause of the disease is slowly being achieved. However, the complete and exact cause is still unknown, while the hereditary nature thereof is still greatly disputed. Where many researchers believe that RA is hereditary and passed on from generation to generation, others believe that genes play no role in the development of RA and that environmental factors are the cause thereof. Still others believe that although certain genes play a role in the development of RA, these genes occur randomly and are not inherited. Much research has been done to determine the causes of and prove the possible genetic and hereditary nature of RA. However, research results supporting the hereditary nature of the disease, are opposed or contradicted by an almost equal number of research articles claiming that RA is not inherited. Comparing the research results in all these articles provides more clarity as to the cause and nature of this autoimmune disease. Research done by Dr Sophia Steer, supports the hereditary nature of RA. Twin studies done by her, show that genes contribute to the risk of RA. Dr Steer’s research did not only include studies on monozygotic (twins that share 100% of their genes i.e. identicalShow MoreRelatedDepression in the Elderly Essay3716 Words   |  15 Pageshealth issues. In addition I am going to show how these changes jeopardize the independence and safety issues of seniors who live alone. I will show various ways of counteracting the different healthcare concerns that can restrict the effects of a disease or limit the symptoms of various illnesses. No matter how one feels about healthcare it is both a negative and a positive and essential to our physical and mental well-being. 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