Rheumatoid Arthritis Cause: What Lies Within?

The true rheumatoid arthritis cause is still a mystery. Researchers and scientists are still clueless about this issue as they simply cannot find any evidence for which the immune system would turn against its own self. However, there are some factors that these researchers have pointed out as potential, yet probable causes of rheumatoid arthritis, read to discover what lies within:

Genetic or Hereditary Factors:

It has been discovered by scientists that some genes are known very well to play an important role in our immune system and these genes are allied with the tendency of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Some people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis might not have these genes; but others might have these genes in them, but not the disease. Though contradictory, but this suggests that the genetic factors can play a very important role in analyzing and determining whether or not a person is likely to develop the disease. However, it isn’t the sole factor though. But it is quite clear that one gene cannot make all the difference; more genes are involved in the development of the disease.

Environmental Factors:

Many scientists are of the opinion that something has to occur in order to trigger the process of the disease in people who have peculiar genetic makeup that makes them more susceptible to the disease called rheumatoid arthritis. A bacterial or viral infection can be a probable cause of the disease, but the appropriate cause or the agent that causes the disease is yet to be known. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the disease is contagious; it is not.

Other Factors:

Some scientists are of the opinion that hormonal factors can trigger rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women than in men and the symptoms of the disease tend to improve during pregnancy. But after the delivery, the flares are again noted. These factors are a probable hint of hormonal fluctuations and its relation with the disease. Breast feeding, however, can aggravate rheumatoid arthritis. Also, the use of contraceptives can increase the chances of the development of rheumatoid arthritis.

Scientists hold that the levels of the molecules tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) in our immune system might change following the changing levels of hormones in a pregnant woman. This change is likely to contribute to the inflammation and the destruction of the tissues noted in typical cases of rheumatoid arthritis. These hormones or the lack of hormones or the changes in the hormone levels can encourage the development of the disease in a person who is genetically susceptible.

Although no proper evidences have been found to claim the real cause of rheumatoid arthritis, however, it can be said that rheumatoid arthritis is developed not due to one factor, but due to a combination or an interaction of several factors. Researchers are still trying to understand what are the probable factors involved and how these factors interact together to trigger rheumatoid arthritis. As the rheumatoid arthritis cause is still unknown, a complete method of treatment has also not been derived. Though there are various medications available, but they can just give temporary relief. Permanent solution to the disease has not been identified as yet.

Summary:

The cause of rheumatoid arthritis has been an issue of debate for long. But there are some probable causes which have been revealed in various studies and researches. Though there are very few scientific evidences, but these causes are more likely to be true.