While RA can affect a number of tissues and organs, including the heart, itprimarily targets joints.
Risk factorsinclude advancing age (with the highest risk for people in their 50s) and genetics.
Some medications used to treat RA, likemethotrexate, can be damaging to the liver.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
Alcohol use, which can also hurt the liver, may increase that risk.
Minimize Bone Loss
RA is associated with bone loss andosteoporosis.
Pain and joint stiffness due to RA can lead to inactivity, increasing osteoporosis risk.
Plus, theglucocorticoidmedications often prescribed for the treatment of RA can contribute to significant bone loss.
Research suggests that eating fish several times each week may be protective against RA.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
A healthy diet can be beneficial when it comes to preventing RA.
There is also some evidence thatanti-inflammatory dietscan help fight RA and other inflammatory diseases.
These diets typically rely on elements of vegetarian, gluten-free, and Mediterranean diets.
Be mindful of pain, and don’t push yourself to discomfort.
New medications are being investigated to block these actions, but avoidance of harmful chemicals is best when possible.
Take Early Action
RA is a chronic, progressive disease that can lead to disabling joint damage.
Early symptoms can include morning stiffness that resolves in about an hour.
Smoking, for example, is believed to be implicated in 20% of all RA cases.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your RA concerns or any symptoms you experience.
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