When diving into the world of arthritis, a question often arises: “What is autoimmune arthritis?” It’s a term many may hear but few understand in depth. At its core, autoimmune diseases compel your body’s immune system to attack normal cells. Autoimmune arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), is a manifestation of this where the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s joints.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Closer Look
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, stands out as the most common type of autoimmune arthritis. It is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease. This means that the immune system, which is designed to protect the body, mistakenly attacks healthy cells, leading to inflammation. The consequence? Painful swelling in the affected areas.
How Common is RA?
Approximately 1.28 to 1.36 million adults in the United States are affected by RA. Intriguingly, it is three times more prevalent in women than in men. The joints most commonly under siege are those in the hands, wrists, and knees. The ramifications of RA can be severe, leading to chronic pain, a lack of balance, and even joint deformity.
RA vs. Osteoarthritis
While the two may sound similar, RA differs significantly from osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is attributed to wear-and-tear damage, primarily impacting older individuals. RA, on the other hand, impacts the lining of your joints. This results in painful swelling which can, over time, lead to bone erosion and further joint deformity.
Why Does RA Occur?
It all boils down to an autoimmune disorder. In the case of RA, the immune system mistakes the body’s tissues as threats and goes on the offensive. The aftermath is painful swelling and possible eventual erosion of the bones and joint deformity.
Conclusion
Arthritis, in general, is marked by the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints. However, when delving into the specifics of autoimmune arthritis like RA, it becomes evident that it’s more than just joint pain. It’s a systemic response gone awry, turning the body against itself.
For more information on autoimmune arthritis and its effects, click here.
