Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes
Introduction
Seronegative rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of RA that does not have the classic symptoms of RA, such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Instead, seronegative RA causes inflammation in the joints and other parts of the body, but it does not produce the antibodies that are usually associated with RA. This makes it difficult to diagnose and treat.
What Causes Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The exact cause of seronegative RA is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease. This means that the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. In the case of seronegative RA, the immune system attacks the joints and other parts of the body.
There are a number of factors that may increase the risk of developing seronegative RA, including:
Age: Seronegative RA is more common in people over the age of 50.
Sex: Women are more likely to develop seronegative RA than men.
Family history: People who have a family history of RA are more likely to develop the disease.
Smoking: Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of developing seronegative RA.
Obesity: Obese people are more likely to develop seronegative RA.
What Are the Symptoms of Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The symptoms of seronegative RA can vary depending on the person. Some people may have only mild symptoms, while others may have severe symptoms that can interfere with their daily activities.
The most common symptoms of seronegative RA include:
Joint pain: The pain can be mild or severe and may come and go. It is often worse in the morning and after periods of inactivity.
Joint swelling: The swelling can be mild or severe and may affect one or more joints.
Joint stiffness: The stiffness is often worse in the morning and after periods of inactivity.
Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of seronegative RA. It can be mild or severe and may interfere with daily activities.
Weight loss: Weight loss is a common symptom of seronegative RA. It can be mild or severe and may be due to the inflammation or the medications used to treat the disease.
Other symptoms: Other symptoms of seronegative RA may include fever, chills, and night sweats.
How Is Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing seronegative RA can be difficult because it does not have the classic symptoms of RA. There is also no single test that can confirm a diagnosis of seronegative RA.
To diagnose seronegative RA, your doctor will likely:
Take a medical history
Perform a physical exam
Order blood tests
Order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans
Your doctor may also refer you to a rheumatologist, a doctor who specializes in arthritis.
How Is Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated?
There is no cure for seronegative RA, but treatment can help to relieve symptoms and prevent joint damage. Treatment may include:
Medications: There are a variety of medications that can be used to treat seronegative RA. These medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and reduce pain.
Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy can help you to adapt to your symptoms and perform daily activities more easily.
Alternative therapies: There are a number of alternative therapies that may help to relieve symptoms of seronegative RA. These therapies include acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal remedies.
Outlook for Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis
The outlook for seronegative RA varies depending on the person. Some people may have mild symptoms that do not interfere with their daily activities, while others may have severe symptoms that can lead to joint damage and disability.
With early diagnosis and treatment, most people with seronegative RA can live full and active lives.
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