Inmultiple sclerosis, those attacks are directed at the central nervous systemspecifically themyelin sheaththat protects nerve cells.
Inrheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks target thesynoviumthe lining of the joints.
Theseautoimmune diseasesmay share symptoms, but the root of these conditions are different.
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Meanwhile, RA is characterized by joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
RA can also affect the bodys organs, including the skin, eyes, heart, and lungs.
Over time, ongoing inflammation can lead to bone erosion and joint deformity.
Without early and adequate treatment, chronicinflammationcan lead to disease consequences.
Complications of RA include:
Causes
The causes of MS and RA are unknown.
Researchers believe that both conditions are related to genetics.
Having specific genes or a family history can increase your risk for MS or RA.
Additional risk factors linked to RA include:
Can MS and RA Coexist?
Multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis are both autoimmune diseases.
They result when your immune system malfunctions and attacks healthy tissues.
It is possible to have more than one autoimmune disease, so MS and RA can coexist.
There have been numerous investigative reports that suggest a connection between MS and RA and their coexistence.
This due to similar immune processes and common genetic backgrounds.
Diagnosis
MS and RA are diagnosed differently.
Each has its specific diagnostic criteria and testing methods.
Your healthcare provider will start with a medical history andneurological examination.
Let your healthcare provider know about the symptoms you have experienced and any patterns linked to symptoms.
If MS is suspected, additional testing is used to help confirm the diagnosis.
Your healthcare provider will want to know about your family history of RA or other autoimmune diseases.
They will also ask about the symptoms you are currently experiencing and your medical history.
They may also check your muscle strength and reflexes.
These are aggressive conditions, and they need regular monitoring and strong medicines, so they dont become life-threatening.
Consistent healthcare visits can help improve your outlook and preserve your quality of life.
These conditions also affect vital organs, specifically the eyes.
check that you are getting your eyes checked annually to look for changes or problems before they worsen.
There is some overlap in medicines used for MS and RA.
Medicines used in treating both conditions aredisease-modifying antirheumatic drugs(DMARDs),biologic drug therapies, andcorticosteroids.
Occupational, physical, and vision therapy may also be part of a plan to manage MS symptoms.
Treatment for MS will depend on thetype of MSand the severity of symptoms.
Aphysical therapistcan give you information about safe exercises to keep your joints strong and mobile.
Surgery can dramatically improve a persons mobility and reduce pain.
Prevention
MS and RA are not preventable conditions.
Summary
Multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis are both autoimmune diseases.
They result when a persons immune system malfunctions and starts attacking healthy tissues.
With MS, immune system attacks are targeted at the myelin sheath (which protects nerves).
In RA, the linings of the joints are targeted.
There is no cure for MS or RA, and both of these conditions can worsen over time.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for slowing down these conditions and reducing the potential for permanent damage.
Neither disease is preventable, and there is no way of knowing who may develop MS or RA.
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