Until the severe stages of (RA) most people with the disease appear to be normal. RA is different from most types of arthritis and the public is usually unaware of this. For example a person may mention that they have RA and people do not understand the severity of it. They usually dismiss the complaint as nothing is really wrong with the person and they must be over exagerrating. RA is very painful. It causes swelling of the joints and severe stiffness. Joints can be sensitive to touch.
For instance during a flare someone can touch the inflamed area and just the slightest bump or nudge can feel like a broken bone. There is no cure for RA, only drugs that can slow the progression. RA can also affect people emotionally. It limits mobility therefore many activities that used to be enjoyable become impossible. RA can cause withdrawal and depression. Support groups are a good source for people with RA. Here they can find the support and understanding they need from others going through the same thing. Sometimes it is the only understanding they will receive.
