Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body, leading to inflammation in affected areas, particularly the joints. RA typically affects multiple joints simultaneously. This chronic inflammatory disorder not only impacts joints but can also damage a variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.

Common symptoms of RA include minor symptoms that may come and go on both sides of the body. The disease usually starts slowly. RA generally begins between the ages of 25 and 45 years, but it can also present in older individuals. Key indicators of RA may include an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR, also known as sed rate) or C-reactive protein (CRP) level, signaling the presence of an inflammatory process in the body. Blood tests often look for rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies.

Imaging tests are also part of the diagnosis process. The progression of RA can be categorized into four stages: early-stage RA, moderate-stage RA, severe RA, and remission. Treatment options and talking with a rheumatologist are crucial for managing the disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of inflammatory polyarthritis that can lead to joint destruction, deformity, and loss of function. The hallmark of the disease is the swelling of small joints, especially in the hands and feet, but it can affect most joints in the body.

For more information on Rheumatoid Arthritis, visit the CDC, learn about the Early Stage and More at Healthline, understand the Symptoms and Causes at Mayo Clinic, discover why Age of Onset Matters at Medical News Today, explore Diagnosis and Treatment options at Mayo Clinic, understand the Stages: 1 to 4 Progression at Healthline, read about Elderly Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis, and learn about RA Symptoms Diagnosis and Treatment at Hopkins Arthritis.