Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Potential for Paralysis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) generally refers to a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects joints. In severe cases, RA can lead to paralysis, typically due to rapid disease progression, involving critical joints, or resulting from joint deformities caused by lack of standardized treatment.

Causes of Paralysis in RA

1. Joint Deformities: RA is an autoimmune disease related to genetic and environmental factors. It causes pain and swelling in joints. If not treated promptly or if proper care is neglected during treatment, the condition may progress, leading to joint deformities and, in severe cases, paralysis.

2. Impaired Joint Mobility: RA frequently affects surrounding joints and damages joint cartilage, causing joint deformation. Impaired joint mobility is a severe sequela of RA and can result in paralysis.

3. Other Factors: If RA affects the nervous or cardiovascular systems, it can cause paralysis or limited mobility. For instance, respiratory muscle paralysis can lead to breathing difficulties, while prolonged bed rest due to limited mobility can result in muscle atrophy, also contributing to paralysis.

Management and Treatment

Patients with RA are advised to promptly consult a rheumatologist for a comprehensive assessment, including blood tests, to determine the severity of the condition. Treatment may involve medications such as methotrexate and leflunomide, prescribed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In cases of joint deformities, surgical correction followed by rehabilitation exercises can help alleviate symptoms.