Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s own tissues. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is due to wear-and-tear damage, RA affects the joint lining, causing painful swelling that can lead to bone erosion and joint deformity.
Arthritis generally involves the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints, with symptoms such as joint pain and stiffness that typically worsen with age. The most prevalent types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. RA specifically causes joint inflammation and pain by attacking the synovium, the lining of the joints. It commonly affects hands, knees, or ankles, and usually the same joint on both sides of the body.
The exact causes of RA are not well understood, but it is believed to be an immune response where the body’s immune system attacks its healthy cells. Factors that can increase the risk of developing RA have been identified. For example, smoking is a known risk factor that not only increases the odds of developing RA but can also exacerbate the disease progression and lead to more significant joint damage.
Mayo Clinic provides comprehensive information on the symptoms and causes of RA. Similarly, CDC offers insights into the disease, and WebMD discusses the causes and risk factors. Additionally, resources like Healthline and Arthritis Foundation offer detailed overviews of the symptoms, causes, and treatment of RA.
