Early Screening for Rheumatoid Arthritis: Smoking Can Also Cause Rheumatoid Arthritis

What causes rheumatoid arthritis? The pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis is complex. It is generally believed that genetic, infectious, environmental, and immune factors play important roles. Previous studies have shown that polymorphism of the HLA-DRB1 gene is closely related to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis. However, the variation in the HLA-DRB1 gene alone is not sufficient; other genes and non-genetic factors may also contribute to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis.

Studies have shown that smoking is an independent risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis. Smoking not only increases the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis but also accelerates the progression of the disease. Additionally, factors such as infections, obesity, malnutrition, and psychological stress may also affect the onset and progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

Morning Pain and Joint Heat Should Be Noted Rheumatoid arthritis is a group of autoimmune diseases that often affect the joints, bones, soft tissues, and internal organs. The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person and may change as the disease progresses.

Common symptoms include:

• Joint pain, usually occurring in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain may gradually worsen, leading to limited joint function.
• Joint swelling and redness, causing the joints to become stiff or lose flexibility.
• Joint heat, feeling warmth or burning at the joints.
• Fatigue and general discomfort, affecting daily activities and quality of life.
• Skin symptoms such as rashes, pigmentation, and ulcers.
• Eye symptoms such as dry eyes, conjunctivitis, and scleritis.
• Respiratory symptoms such as lung lesions and difficulty breathing.

What to Do If You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis? Pay Attention to These 6 Points If you have corresponding symptoms, you should visit the rheumatology and immunology department.

The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not yet clear, so it is not possible to completely eliminate the cause and cure the disease. The goal of clinical treatment is to help patients control disease progression, relieve symptoms, and prevent joint damage.

• Regular follow-up and close monitoring during treatment to timely adjust the treatment plan.
• Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease, and medication should be taken as prescribed, without stopping arbitrarily.
• Patients who smoke, are obese, or consume excessive alcohol will have poorer treatment outcomes. It is recommended to quit smoking and drinking, engage in appropriate physical activity, especially joint exercises, to maintain joint function.
• Balanced diet, keep warm, adhere to appropriate rehabilitation exercises, and maintain a good mindset.