Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that not only affects the joints but can also impact various body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. As an autoimmune disorder, RA arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues.
The disease typically manifests between the ages of 25 and 45, but can also present in older individuals. RA is characterized by intermittent symptoms; during flare-ups, symptoms intensify, while periods of remission may involve few or no symptoms. The progression of RA can be broadly categorized into stages:
Stage 1: Initially, the joint lining or synovium becomes inflamed, leading to swelling and pain without bone damage.
Stage 2: As RA progresses, the inflammation might start to damage the bone as well as the cartilage within the joint.
The symptoms and progression of RA can vary significantly among individuals. Some may experience long periods with minimal symptoms, while others might endure persistent discomfort. The typical signs of early RA include joint pain, fatigue, malaise, and a reduced range of motion.
To learn more about the early signs and management of rheumatoid arthritis, visit Healthline, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, CreakyJoints, Medical News Today, Verywell Health, and WebMD for comprehensive information.
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