Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes, and Management

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that significantly impacts health, affecting joints and other body parts. It’s characterized by pain, swelling, and deformity, primarily due to the inflammation of the synovial membrane lining the joints. This leads to fluid buildup, joint erosion, and degradation. RA, an autoimmune and inflammatory disease, results from the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy cells, causing inflammation in various body parts, including multiple joints.

RA’s impact is not limited to joints; it can be a systemic disease affecting the heart, lungs, and eyes. The disease commonly targets joints in the hands, wrists, and knees. It often starts in small peripheral joints and typically affects both sides of the body equally and symmetrically. However, any synovial joint can be affected.

Understanding the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of arthritis, like gout, is crucial. Gout, for instance, results from uric acid crystal buildup, causing intense pain and inflammation in joints such as the big toe. In contrast, RA involves the immune system’s role in joint damage.

RA’s severity can vary, leading to significant joint deformities and mobility challenges, especially in the fingers. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for managing symptoms and preventing severe complications. Although there is no cure for RA, appropriate treatment can help manage its symptoms.

For more in-depth information on rheumatoid arthritis, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, visit these resources:

Mayo Clinic
CDC
Cleveland Clinic
Johns Hopkins Medicine
NCBI Bookshelf
NCBI Bookshelf
Healthline