Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that typically affects the small joints in your hands and feet. Unlike the wear-and-tear damage of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may include:
- Tender, warm, swollen joints
- Joint stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity
- Fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite
In addition to joint problems, rheumatoid arthritis can affect other parts of the body. Some people may experience:
- Dryness, pain, inflammation, redness, sensitivity to light, and trouble seeing properly
- Dryness and gum inflammation, irritation, or infection in the mouth
- Rheumatoid nodules — small lumps under the skin over bony areas
- Lung inflammation and scarring, leading to shortness of breath and lung disease
Other common symptoms include pain and inflammation in the fingers, hands, wrists, knees, ankles, feet, and toes. Uncontrolled inflammation can damage cartilage and eventually erode bone, deforming joints.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of RA is unknown, but certain factors increase the risk of developing the condition:
- Age: RA can begin at any age, but it is more likely in adults in their sixties
- Sex: RA is more common in women than men
- Genetics: Specific genes can increase the likelihood of developing RA
Treatment
Rheumatoid arthritis treatments focus on controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage. Common treatment options include medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
For more detailed information about rheumatoid arthritis, visit these resources:
- Mayo Clinic
- Arthritis Foundation
- Cleveland Clinic
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Johns Hopkins Medicine
- MedlinePlus
