Is rheumatoid arthritis a progressive disease?
My doctor said my joint pain might be rheumatoid arthritis, and he mentioned it tends to get worse over time. I'm trying to understand this. Is rheumatoid arthritis a progressive disease?
5 answers
8 months ago
Most liked
Technically, yes, it is progressive if left untreated. But the whole point of starting DMARDs early is to halt this progression completely. So please don't skip your medicines thinking you will manage with just pain killers.
8 months ago
It progresses only if you let it sit on the couch and watch TV all day! Jokes aside, yes, it can get worse over time, but modern science has excellent brakes to stop that from happening. Just trust your doc.
Powered by
Consult a rheumatologist
yrs exp
9 months ago
Yes, it is progressive, but staying physically active helps a lot in maintaining joint mobility. I do light stretching and walking daily, which keeps the stiffness away. Just ask your doctor what exercises are safe for your stage.
9 months ago
It can be progressive if you don't monitor it. Just like my thyroid levels, you need to do regular blood checks to see if the inflammation is under control. Make sure to visit your rheumatologist every few months.
Related reads
All articles
Dental Health
Turmeric for Gum Disease: Does It Really Work?
Can turmeric help gum disease? Learn what research says about turmeric for gingivitis, curcumin for gum h...
Women's Health
Pregnancy and Gum Disease: Why Bleeding Gums Happen During Pregnancy?
Why do gums bleed during pregnancy? Learn why bleeding gums happen during pregnancy, the symptoms to watc...
Oral Health
Can Smoking and Vaping Cause Gum Disease?
Learn whether smoking and vaping can cause gum disease, how they damage your gum health, symptoms to watc...
Oral Health
Is Antimicrobial Mouthwash Good For Gum Disease?
Suffering from Gum Disease and wondering if Antimicrobial mouthwashes would be beneficial for you? This g...
8 months ago
In my own case, I ignored the joint stiffness for two years and it definitely got worse and spread to my wrists. Once I finally accepted it and started proper treatment, the deterioration stopped completely.