Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes of Swelling and Effective Treatments

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and swelling in the joints. This condition can lead to swelling in various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, and other areas. RA is more than just a joint disorder; it can also impact other body systems like the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. The disease damages the lining and cartilage of the joints, causing painful swelling, a key symptom of RA. If not treated early, RA can lead to permanent joint damage.

Chronic peripheral edema is a common yet often overlooked issue associated with RA. It’s crucial to investigate potential causes and understand the pathophysiological mechanisms behind chronic peripheral edema to determine the best treatment approach. Arthritis, in general, involves the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints, with the main symptoms being joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The most prevalent forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

A small percentage of individuals with RA may develop peripheral nonpitting edema, which is not directly linked to other factors like anemia, hypoalbuminemia, fluid retention, or venous obstruction. RA lymphedema, a rare complication, can cause chronic, diffuse, and painful swelling.

For more detailed information on rheumatoid arthritis and its symptoms, visit Medical News Today, Mayo Clinic, and Healthline. For insights into chronic peripheral edema in RA patients, refer to PubMed. To compare osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, check out Mayo Clinic. For information on the treatment of rheumatoid lymphedema, visit LWW Journals.