Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder predominantly affecting the joints. Characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s own tissues, RA results in inflammation that can cause severe pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints.
Key Areas Affected:
- Joints: Typically involves multiple joints symmetrically (e.g., both knees, both hands).
- Systemic Involvement: RA can also affect skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and mouth, contributing to a wide range of symptoms.
Age and Onset:
- RA most commonly begins between the ages of 30 and 60.
- It can also start in younger individuals (16-40 years), termed as Young-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis (YORA).
- Symptoms appearing after age 60 are referred to as Late-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis (LORA).
Ayurvedic Perspective:
- Known as Amavata in Ayurveda, RA is believed to be caused by the imbalance of ‘Vata’ and the accumulation of ‘Ama’ (toxins) in the joints.
- Symptoms: This condition is marked by Shula (pain) and Shotha (swelling).
- Treatment Approaches: Ayurvedic treatments focus on Shamana (alleviating symptoms through conservative measures) and Shodhana (detoxification and purification of the body) to restore balance and reduce symptoms.
Managing RA:
- Modern Medical Treatments: Include disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biological response modifiers, and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction are crucial.
- Ayurvedic Remedies: May include herbal preparations, dietary adjustments, and specific cleansing therapies as per individual needs.
- Holistic Health Management: Combining Western and Eastern approaches can offer a comprehensive management strategy, addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes of RA, aiming for a better quality of life.
