Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that not only affects the joints but can also impact other parts of the body. This condition arises when the immune system malfunctions, mistakenly attacking the body’s own tissues, particularly the synovium, the lining of the joints. Commonly, RA affects joints symmetrically, such as both hands or both knees.

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, which often worsen with age. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from the breakdown of joint cartilage, RA involves an autoimmune response causing joint inflammation. Over time, this inflammation can lead to joint deformity and erosion, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life.

Rheumatoid arthritis can be confused with other forms of arthritis, like gout. Gout is characterized by intense pain and swelling in the joints, often starting in the big toe, and is caused by uric acid crystal deposits. In contrast, RA is driven by immune system activity.

The hands are often severely affected by RA, leading to finger joint deformities that can hinder everyday activities. While there is no cure for RA, treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving joint function. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial to slow down the disease progression.

For more detailed information, you can visit:

Mayo Clinic,
Arthritis Foundation,
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
Cleveland Clinic,
Johns Hopkins Medicine,
Mayo Clinic on Arthritis.