TRUTHS AND MYTHS REGARDING RA | Arthritis Information

 

A lot of RA sufferers are confused and scared when they are diagnosed with the disease..What happens to one person doesnt always have to be another persons story...this site gives the myths and truths about RA...I found it quite informative

 

I am saving this for anytime someone asks about the disease...

 

I also noticed in Myth #7 this information which is pertinent to other discussions on this forum:

 

On the bright side: the risk of colorectal cancer is actually reduced by up to 40% in people with rheumatoid arthritis. One theory argues that the frequent use of anti-inflammatory medicines called NSAIDs (including aspirin, motrin, and ibuprofen) by rheumatoid arthritis patients helps to prevent cancer in the colon.

 

 

 

Myth No. 6: Because treatments for rheumatoid arthritis can be toxic, it's best to wait until the disease progresses before beginning treatment.

"This may be the most dangerous myth," warns Kremer.

There is now abundant proof that treating rheumatoid arthritis early prevents joint damage and disability. "Ideally, treatment should start as soon as possible after diagnosis," he adds. "Delaying treatment can mean worse outcomes down the road."

In fact, one study suggests that early treatment with methotrexate could delay full-blown rheumatoid arthritis from developing at all, in some people.

It's true, medications used to treat RA can have side effects. Rarely are the side effects worse than untreated rheumatoid arthritis, though. Simple blood tests and doctor's visits can detect many of the serious side effects of rheumatoid arthritis medications.

Thanks for the link. It answered my question about exercise. Thanks again

 

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