Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease where the immune system erroneously attacks healthy cells in the body, causing inflammation in various parts. This condition primarily affects the joints, often involving multiple joints simultaneously, such as those in the hands, wrists, and knees. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is due to wear-and-tear, RA leads to painful swelling in the joint lining, potentially causing bone erosion and joint deformity.
The exact cause of RA remains unknown. It is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammatory arthritis and may involve other organs like the heart and lungs. Factors contributing to RA include a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental elements, such as tobacco exposure. When diagnosed with RA, it’s essential to understand that it shares commonalities with other autoimmune diseases, like type 1 diabetes.
Symptoms of RA include warm, swollen, and painful joints, often worsening after rest. This condition tends to affect the same joints on both sides of the body. If untreated, it can lead to significant joint damage, deformities, and mobility issues, especially in the hands, wrists, knees, and hips.
For more detailed information, you can visit the following resources: Mayo Clinic, CDC, Johns Hopkins Medicine, NCBI Bookshelf, WebMD, and Wikipedia.
