What Are the Symptoms and Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that extends beyond the joints to affect various parts of the body. The inflammation originates in the synovial membrane, leading to an accumulation of fluid, joint erosion, and eventual deformity. Symptoms of RA include pain, swelling, and a characteristic prolonged morning stiffness lasting more than an hour. Fatigue is also a common complaint, resulting from the body’s chronic inflammatory response.

While the exact causes of RA remain elusive, it is understood as an autoimmune disorder. Genetic predisposition plays a role, although not all individuals at risk develop the condition. Researchers are making strides in understanding what triggers RA, examining factors like gut bacteria and their link to pre-clinical autoimmunity and aging.

One particular manifestation of RA in the hands is ulnar drift, where hand and wrist joint damage leads to a misalignment of the fingers. As research continues, new diagnostic tools such as Raman spectroscopy offer less invasive methods for identifying conditions like gastrointestinal tumors, which can be associated with RA complications.

Despite the overlap in symptoms, it’s important to differentiate RA from conditions such as osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, rather than autoimmune processes. On the occasion of World Arthritis Day 2023, experts emphasized the need for awareness of the various causes and treatments of joint diseases. Meanwhile, other world events continue to unfold, such as the Israeli military preparing for a wide range of attacks as Gaza residents face the closure of the Rafah border.

For a comprehensive understanding of rheumatoid arthritis, resources such as the Mayo Clinic, The Hans India, and RheumatoidArthritis.org offer detailed insights into the symptoms, causes, and treatments of RA.