Things to Know About Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your joints.

1. RA may affect you differently as you age

While RA is most common in women ages 25 to 45, the condition can develop in males and females of all ages.

2. Exercise can help with pain management

Regular exercise helps improve your overall health and well-being, but it can be difficult getting started when you have RA-related pain.

3. Rest is just as important as exercise

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases recommends exercising regularly.

4. Stress management is crucial

Stress can increase your risk of developing an RA flare-up, and it may also worsen other conditions you have such as fibromyalgia.

5. It's also possible to have fibromyalgia

Both fibromyalgia and RA have similar symptoms, including fatigue and pain.