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I went to see my doctor because my hands were starting to bother me. I found out I have rheumatoid arthritis. My Grandma had this condition. Her hands were all gnarled up and very painful. The doctor assures me today's treatment is much better for this problem. What can I expect over the next 20 years?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic disease meaning it affects many parts of the organs and body. It seems to have its greatest impact on the joints, especially the joints of the hands and feet.

Early intervention has been shown to reduce deformities and maintain function. With proper medical care, patients are often able to manage very well. Patients in stage 1 disease (first six months) are treated with antiinflammatory drugs.

If your symptoms progress or the medications don't help, other disease-modifying drugs are available. It may take some time to find the right drug or the best combination of medications for you. The worst thing you can do is give up and stop seeing the doctor. A little investment of time and money now can save you a lot of grief and pain later.

A visit to the hand therapist (occupational or physical therapist) will get you set up on a program of joint protection, conditioning, and strengthening. It's important to learn how to balance rest and activity, especially during flare-ups.

Without treatment, joint damage and deformity can get worse and worse. The final stage of RA involves bone destruction and collapse. Most patients today are able to avoid this kind of outcome with consistent medical attention and self-care practices.

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