About 1% of Mexico’s population can develop rheumatoid arthritis, notes Dr. Paola Estefanía Bermúdez Bermejo, internal medicine specialist and rheumatologist at ABC Medical Center. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease that can affect any joint in the body, large or small, and if not properly treated, can also affect other organs, such as the salivary glands, lungs, kidneys, skin, and even blood vessels and arteries.
The World Health Organization notes that among people living with rheumatoid arthritis, around 70% are women, and about 55% develop it after age 55.
This condition causes inflammation triggered by autoantibodies produced by the immune system itself, which mistakenly attack the joints first and, over time, can affect other organs as well.
In the early stages, symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis typically include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, other symptoms can develop, such as hair loss, dry eyes or mouth, petechiae on the skin (small bruise-like spots), fever, or weight loss, notes Dr. Bermúdez.
Several risk factors have been linked to the development of this condition, one of the main ones being smoking, followed by an inflammatory diet, meaning one high in carbohydrates, red meat, cured meats, or very salty or processed foods.
Another important risk factor to be aware of is having close family members with an autoimmune disease.
Today, several treatment options are available for rheumatoid arthritis, but achieving a good outcome depends on early detection through a visit to a rheumatologist.
At ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine area, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
