RA affects about 1% of the world population, with a prevalence of 1.06% in women (as a percentage of the total population) compared with 0.61% in men.
Symptoms The early onset of RA typically effects the small joints such as the fingers and toes. Many just feel as though these areas are mildly warm, stiff or swollen. These symptoms are often intermittent, only flaring up for a few days at a time. Over time, symptoms can get worse and cause deformity in the fingers and toes. The disease can also progress to larger joints such as the shoulders, knees and hips. Other symptoms associated with RA include [1] fatigue, [2] low-grade fevers, [3] pain and stiffness for longer than 30 minutes in the morning or after sitting, [4] anaemia, [5] weight loss RA also has been shown to significantly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke because it can damage the protective sheath (pericardium) around the heart. 4 Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Stage I - is characterized by inflammation of the synovial membrane, causing swelling in joints and pain upon motion. However, there is generally no x-ray evidence of joint destruction, with the exception of swelling of soft tissues and possibly evidence of some bone erosion. Stage II sees a spread of inflammation in synovial tissue, affecting joint cavity space across joint cartilage. This gradually results in a destruction of cartilage, accompanied by a narrowing of the joint. Stage III is marked by formation of pannus (vascular scar tissue that extends over the surface of an organ or joint) in the synovium. Loss of joint cartilage exposes bone and joint deformities may also become evident. Stage IV involves the formation of fibrous tissue and/or fusing of bones, resulting in ceased joint function. Possible formation of subcutaneous nodules.
Immune Modulation Chronic inflammatory disorders are characterized by a hyper responsive immune system. There are several key factors that must be addressed to regulate and better coordinate the immune system. 1/ Research shows a high prevalence of gluten sensitivity with RA, lupus and scleroderma. 2/ Vitamin D helps to enhance self-tolerance and reduce the risk of autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. 3/ The gut microbiome plays a huge role in nutrient absorption, detoxification and the development and maturation of the immune system. People with RA often have excess “bad” bacteria which release a potent inflammatory mediator called LPS and an overall loss of beneficial anti-inflammatory microbes. 4/ Individuals with RA often have small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). 5/ Those with autoimmune diseases often have a damaged gut lining and intestinal permeability. This “leaky gut” causes undigested food particles to pass into the bloodstream where they are tagged by the immune system and attacked with massive inflammatory processes. Naturopathic nutritionists may advise you to eat more: 1) coconut products, avocados, olive oil, berries & phytonutrient rich vegetables. 2) sauerkraut, apple cider vinegar, coconut water kefir, and kimchi are great. 3) turmeric, ginger, garlic, onion, rosemary, thyme, cinnamon. 4) onions, garlic, cruciferous veggies. 5) fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, herring. 6) dark green leafy veg, avocados, grass-fed animal products, raw cacao & pumpkin seeds. > You can also do Epsom salt baths to support your magnesium levels. > B vitamin supplementation - look for one with pre-activated forms such as methyl-folate, methyl-cobalamin (B12), Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate form of B6, and Riboflavin-5-phosphate form of vitamin B2. The methyl groups are in the active form & will be better utilized by the body. (adapted from https://drjockers.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/)
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