Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease, characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy cells in the body. This leads to inflammation, primarily in the joints, resulting in pain and swelling. Commonly affected areas include the hands, knees, and ankles, often symmetrically on both sides of the body, such as both hands or both knees.
RA is a chronic condition that can cause severe inflammation, impacting not only joints but also potentially affecting the heart, lungs, nerves, eyes, and skin. One of the distinguishing features of RA in the hands is joint deformities in the fingers, making hand movements challenging.
Interestingly, rheumatoid arthritis differs significantly from gout, another form of arthritis. While gout is caused by uric acid crystals leading to inflammation, RA’s inflammation is a result of immune system activity. Symptoms of gout include intense pain, redness, and swelling in the affected joints, often the big toe.
Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in joints, commonly affecting the wrist and fingers. It is more prevalent in women than men, typically beginning in middle age and more commonly seen in older individuals.
For more detailed information, visit Mayo Clinic, CDC, Arthritis Foundation, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, and MedlinePlus for comprehensive insights.
