Answer :
Final answer:
Rheumatoid arthritis is a degenerative disease because it involves chronic inflammation that progressively damages joints and surrounding tissues. The condition leads to increasing pain, losing joint function, and potential systemic issues. As a result, the deterioration of joint health becomes a critical aspect of this disease.
Explanation:
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis as a Degenerative Disease
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is often considered a degenerative disease due to its chronic inflammatory nature, which leads to the progressive deterioration of the joints and surrounding tissues. Unlike some acute diseases that may resolve over time, RA is a long-term autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own joint tissues.
The main reasons why RA is classified as degenerative include:
- Joint Damage: As the disease progresses, inflammation can cause significant destruction of cartilage and bone within the joints. This can lead to deformities and loss of function.
- Progressive Symptoms: Patients often experience increasing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, these symptoms can become more debilitating, limiting daily activities.
- Tissue Involvement: RA can affect other tissues in the body, leading to systemic complications such as cardiovascular disease, which can further contribute to the degenerative aspects of the condition.
Overall, the degenerative nature of rheumatoid arthritis stems from its chronic inflammation and the resultant damage to the joints, which often worsens over time without appropriate treatment.
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