Rheumatoid Arthritis
Description
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. This causes joint inflammation, which can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness—often most noticeable in the hands and feet and sometimes lasting longer in the morning. RA can affect several joints at once and is often symmetric, meaning similar joints on both sides of the body are involved. Over time, persistent inflammation can cause joint damage and can affect daily activities and energy levels. If you notice persistent joint symptoms, speak with a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate assessment and guidance.
Common Symptoms
- Joint pain, swelling, and tenderness in multiple joints, often the hands and feet.
- Prolonged morning stiffness that lasts an hour or more.
- Symmetric involvement of joints (the same joints on both sides of the body).
- Warmth or a sense of heat around affected joints.
- Fatigue and a general feeling of malaise.
- Reduced range of motion and grip strength due to swelling and joint damage.
- Early involvement of small joints, especially wrists, knuckles (MCP), and finger joints (PIP).
- If you notice these symptoms, seek evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.
Causes
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks joints.
The exact cause isn't known, but risk results from a mix of genetic and environmental factors.
Being female and typically midlife age increase risk.
Genetic predisposition (family history and certain HLA genes) and smoking are important factors.
Obesity, hormonal influences, and other environmental exposures have been linked; if you have concerns, consult a qualified healthcare professional for evaluation.
Treatment Options
Rheumatoid arthritis is commonly treated with a mix of lifestyle changes, medicines, and sometimes procedures.
Lifestyle approaches include regular moderate exercise, weight management, smoking cessation if applicable, and physical/occupational therapy to protect joints.
Medications often involve disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow progression, plus biologic agents, NSAIDs or acetaminophen for pain, and corticosteroids for short-term flares.
Procedures may include corticosteroid injections into affected joints, joint drainage, and in advanced cases surgical options such as joint replacement or repair.
Ongoing monitoring with a healthcare professional is important, including regular tests and vaccinations as advised.
Treatment plans are individualized and should be discussed with a qualified clinician, such as a rheumatologist.