Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that significantly impacts joints and can affect other parts of the body. It is characterized by the inflammation of the synovial membrane, leading to fluid buildup, joint erosion, and deformity. Being an autoimmune disease, RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, particularly affecting the lining of joints (synovium). Commonly involved joints include those in the hands, wrists, knees, and often the same joints on both sides of the body.
As RA progresses, it can be categorized into four stages: early-stage RA, moderate-stage RA, severe RA, and end-stage RA. Symptoms might not be evident until the disease has progressed to a moderate stage. RA differs from other types of arthritis as it typically affects joints symmetrically and can lead to significant joint deformities, especially in the fingers, impairing hand movement.
Apart from joint pain and inflammation, RA can cause widespread effects throughout the body. The main symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The most prevalent types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage at joint ends, while RA is more about immune system attacks on joint tissues.
Learn more about this condition, its symptoms, and treatment options at the following resources:
Mayo Clinic
Arthritis Foundation
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Healthline
Cleveland Clinic
Johns Hopkins Medicine
Healthline
Mayo Clinic
WebMD
