What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? Causes, Symptoms, and Differences from Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting more than just your joints. This autoimmune disease mistakenly causes your immune system to attack your own body’s tissues, leading to inflammation and pain.

RA is not just a single joint disease. In some individuals, the condition can harm various body systems, encompassing the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. Primarily, it targets the joints—often many at once—including those in the hands, wrists, and knees. Notably, the disease usually affects symmetrical joints, meaning if one hand is affected, the other is likely to be as well.

A characteristic feature of RA is its ability to attack the lining of the joints, known as the synovium. This results in joint inflammation and pain, making activities like moving your hands or walking increasingly challenging. In advanced stages, RA may even cause deformities in the joints of the fingers.

But what triggers RA? The condition is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease. This means the immune system perceives healthy cells as threats and subsequently attacks them, causing inflammation and painful swelling in the affected body parts.

Beyond its effects on the joints, RA can also impact other parts of the body. It can affect organs such as your eyes, mouth, and lungs, emphasizing the systemic nature of the disease. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is common in older age and results from wear and tear on the joints, RA stems from the immune system’s misguided attacks on the body’s own tissues.

It’s crucial to distinguish RA from other forms of arthritis. For instance, gout arises from an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the blood. In contrast, infections or underlying diseases like psoriasis or lupus can be precursors to other arthritis types.

For a deeper understanding of Rheumatoid arthritis and its implications, consider visiting expert sources like the Mayo Clinic, CDC, and Johns Hopkins Medicine.

In conclusion, Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex and multifaceted disease that necessitates comprehensive understanding and management. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.