What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that extends beyond just affecting the joints. For some individuals, it can damage a multitude of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. This condition is characterized by joint inflammation and pain, resulting from the immune system mistakenly attacking the joint lining, known as the synovium. RA often impacts the same joints on both sides of the body, such as both hands or both knees, distinguishing it from other types of arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that presents symptoms in various body systems. It is a chronic condition, typically developing in joints symmetrically. The likelihood of developing RA increases with age, particularly in adults in their sixties. Additionally, new cases of RA are more common in women than men, and genetics play a role in susceptibility to the disease.

Comparing osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, both conditions involve joint swelling and tenderness, with common symptoms including pain and stiffness that worsen over time. However, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are distinct in their causes and affected areas.

The exact causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis are still unidentified, despite extensive medical research. This uncertainty remains even as the medical community continues to explore potential causes.

For more information on rheumatoid arthritis, its symptoms, causes, and treatments, visit the following resources:

Mayo Clinic
Arthritis Foundation
Cleveland Clinic
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Mayo Clinic on Arthritis
RheumatoidArthritis.org