Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis in which the body attacks itself. The immune system of the body destroys its own tissues especially those than make up the joints. As a result the joints become inflamed, stiff and rigid. This causes a lot of pain. If not treated, rheumatoid athritis can lead to deformed joints. Other areas of the body are also likely to be affected including the lungs, heart, blood vessels and eyes. It usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 60.

Rhematoid arthritus can affect different parts of the body. It causes swelling, stiffness and pain around joints. It usually is more painful after waking up since the joints do not move while sleeping. The joints that are most likely to be affected are those of the hands, fingers, wrists, knees, ankles, feet and elbows. The lymph glands can become swollen and you might feel tired often. A low fever, little or no appetite, weight loss, appearance of small bumps under the skin of the affected joint is common effects and symptom of Rheumatoid arthritus.

There are several symptoms and treatment options for Rhematoid athritis. Drugs such as ibuprofen, gold salts, antimalarials and methotrexate are used to treat the disease. Experimental therapy nowadays uses new drugs. Therapy and treatment is always long term and its goal is to decrease the inflammation and preserve the functions of the joint. Foods low in saturated fats, non-allergic foods; omega 3 fatty acids and a several types of vitamins are very useful in treating Rheumatoid arthritis.