People suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can experience persistent symptoms, as it is considered a chronic and lifelong condition. However, you might experience a period of remission where you get relief from your rheumatology symptoms for a specific period of time. The intensity of symptoms, the frequency of flare-ups, and the period of remission can vary between arthritis patients.
A lot of people suffering from RA tend to stop their medication when they experience remission. However, you can experience a period of relapse after remission. So through this article, we list some of the important factors you should know about RA remission:
It Can Be Hard To Define Remission
How a person experience remission can greatly from another person, just like how the symptoms of RA vary between people. Hence, it can be difficult to give a general definition for remission. It is the period where the disease activity is hidden from people. Some people define remission as “symptom-free”, whereas, some other people see remission as “pain-free”. During remission, you can get relief from most of your rheumatology symptoms.
The definition of remission can vary based on the personal perception of a person. But you should take great care to continue your medications even if your symptoms improve, as the flare-up of symptoms can follow after the remission.
Many People Experience Remission
A lot of RA patients experience remission. But as there are no general criteria that define remission, it can be difficult to find out how many people go through this period. Remission is generally defined as the improvement in RA symptoms.
Early Intervention Can Have A Great Impact On Remission Rates
Advanced rheumatism treatments can be greatly beneficial to control the development of RA. Taking proper treatment at early stages can help to prevent joint damage along with reducing the risk of this condition affecting other organs and symptoms.
Lifestyle Can Also Affect Remission
Your lifestyle can also have a great impact on the remission rates. Factors like obesity, smoking, etc. can contribute to RA flare-ups. Hence, if you are suffering from this condition, it is better to reduce your body weight and quit smoking. This can be helpful to control the inflammation and other symptoms associated with RA.
People with arthritis should take great care not to stop their medications even if the symptoms improve, as this can be temporary. You can experience a relapse of symptoms after the period of remission.
