Rheumatoid Arthritis can occur at any age   1) Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is more common in women than in men. It is thought to affect women two to three times more often than men. 2) The smaller joints, such as the ones in your feet and hands, are usually affected first during rheumatoid arthritis, but this can eventually spread to larger joints, tissues around the joints, and organs. 3) There is no cure for RA, but treatments including physical therapy, medications and/or surgery can keep the quality of life high for patients suffering from the disease. 4) Although RA can occur at any age, it is most commonly found among those between the ages of 40 and 60 years old. 5) Studies have proven that smoking can increase chances of developing RA. For reasons still unknown, those who smoke are twice more likely to develop the disease than non-smokers are. Quitting smoking can decrease your risk of developing the disease. 6) The most popular medications for RA include disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin, corticosteroids, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors, and antimalarial medications such as Azulfidine and Plaquenil. 7) Lifestyle choices such as eating a healthy diet, reducing stress, and exercising can help improve quality of life for those with RA. Although there is no certain special diet for those with RA, patients who keep their weight down have less likelihood of inflammation, while those who exercise are able to strengthen the muscles around their joints. Walking, swimming, and water aerobics are excellent exercises for those with RA. 8) Common symptoms of RA can include fever, weight loss, joint swelling and pain, low energy and weakness, and inflamed, tender, swollen hands. Most people with RA also experience pain, tenderness or stiffness in the morning upon waking. 9) Studies have shown that adding the omega-6 fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) or omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can help with stiffness and pain caused by RA. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Filing for disability and financial help How long will it take to receive my Social Security Award letter and back pay? Will I qualify for disability if I tried to go back to work? Can I get disability for arthritis in my shoulders, arms, and feet? Getting approved after a Social Security Disability Psychological exam How long does it take to receive disability benefits after you are approved? How to file for disability in Oklahoma OK Filing an SSI disability appeal The chances of winning with a Social Security Disability judge Social Security Disability and ESRD, End Stage Renal Disease Doctor who does the Social Security Disability Medical Exam Filing a disability appeal is how most cases are won Doctors who work for Social Security and their qualifications Time to get a scheduled disability hearing date, or court date Can you file for disability with Hypothyroidism?