Rheumatoid arthritis may cause anaemia – a condition characterized with reduction of the number of red blood cells which results in the blood being unable to carry enough oxygen. This condition often leaves patients tired and lethargic. Eight out of ten people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis have developed anaemia. Unlike osteoarthritis, which affects only joints and bones, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to inflammation of the tear glands causing dryness in this area. This condition is known as Sjogren’s syndrome. Other syndromes associated with rheumatoid arthritis are Felty’s syndrome (decreased number of white blood cells and enlarged spleen). Inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the lung lining (pleuritis), the tissue surrounding the heart (pericarditis) and the blood vessels (vasculitis). Vasculitis can cause tissue death which is most often visible as tiny black areas around the nail beds. This condition can also manifest itself in the form of leg ulcers.
Arthritis pain factors include increased disease activity, stress, fatigue, anxiety, focusing on pain, depression, overdoing physical activity etc., while in general positive attitude and pleasant thoughts can block pain signals. As a whole, people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, can alleviate pain by appropriate exercise (swimming has proven to be extremely helpful as it causes minimum strain to the joints. It also strengthens the muscles around the joints maintaining a level of general good condition.
