Rheumatoid Arthritis: Understanding Its Symptoms, Causes, and Connection to Peripheral Neuropathy

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease primarily characterized by inflammation in the joints. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including loss of sensation and motor function, particularly in the hands, feet, and other parts. Approximately 40% of individuals with RA experience these neurological complications, highlighting the disease’s impact beyond joint health.

When diagnosed with RA, it’s crucial to understand that it is an autoimmune disease, akin to other conditions like type 1 diabetes. In RA, the immune system erroneously attacks the body’s own tissues, differentiating it from osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear-and-tear damage. RA specifically targets the lining of the joints, leading to painful swelling, potential bone erosion, and joint deformity.

Additionally, RA can overlap with other connective tissue diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, polymyositis, and dermatomyositis. This overlap of autoimmune disorders can complicate the diagnosis and management of RA.

As an autoimmune and inflammatory disease, RA mistakenly prompts the immune system to attack healthy cells, causing inflammation in various body parts. The disease predominantly affects the joints, often impacting several joints simultaneously, including those in the hands, wrists, and knees.

For more information on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Peripheral Neuropathy, visit Healthline. To learn about Rheumatoid Arthritis as an Autoimmune Disease, check out WebMD. For an in-depth look at Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms and causes, visit Mayo Clinic. Discover the link between COVID infection and autoimmune diseases like RA at MSN, and for a comprehensive overview of Rheumatoid Arthritis, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).