Rheumatoid arthritis

Around 50,000 people in Denmark have rheumatoid arthritis. The disease often affects people over 40 years of age, but it can affect anyone.

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory reaction (inflammation) in the joints caused by changes in the immune system. It is an autoimmune disease, because the body’s immune system – which otherwise protects us against infections and other diseases – begins to perceive healthy cells in the joints as foreign and therefore sends out antibodies to attack the healthy cells. Inflammation develops in the joints, which swell, become warm and painful.

Although rheumatoid arthritis can be a serious disease that can reduce the body’s mobility, today there is often the possibility of treating the disease effectively, and you can also do a lot yourself to maintain a good and active life

Why do people get rheumatoid arthritis?

The precise cause of why some people get rheumatoid arthritis is not known, but both heredity and lifestyle – particularly smoking – appear to play a role. It is also possible that an external substance, e.g. a virus, can trigger the changes in the immune system. On the other hand, it is known with great certainty that various environmental and lifestyle factors are significant for the actual course of the disease. For example, smoking, lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet undoubtedly contribute to making things worse.

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

• The joints that are affected will typically be swollen and painful.
• Increased fatigue
• Possible fever
• Weight loss
• Morning stiffness in the body (It can be difficult to get going in the morning due to stiffness in the body)

How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?

Rheumatoid arthritis cannot be cured, but it is important to receive rapid and effective treatment with medication that can delay or stop the disease. In addition to medical treatment, physiotherapy, mindfulness and possibly surgery will be beneficial. All these treatments are offered at CPH Privathospital. 

No curative treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is known. When the disease is active, it is important to receive rapid and effective treatment with medication that can delay or stop the disease. In some people, the disease can, as mentioned, go into complete remission on its own.

Regardless of whether the symptoms have appeared acutely or are of a longer-lasting nature, you should be seen by a consultant in rheumatology and our consultants are ready to help you, so you can quickly receive the correct diagnosis, whether you are paying yourself, have health insurance or are coming through the public waiting time guarantee.