Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. This condition most commonly impacts the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints in the hands, where the hand bone meets the finger bones. RA symptoms include tender, warm, swollen joints, and stiffness often worse in the mornings or after periods of inactivity. Fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite are also common.
The joints most frequently affected by RA are in the hands, wrists, knees, and feet. Specifically, these joints include the MCP joints, PIP joints, radiocarpal joint of the wrist, and tibiofemoral joint of the knee. RA often causes inflammation in symmetrical areas on both sides of the body, with symptoms varying from person to person. They can develop suddenly or gradually over time.
RA affects about 1% of the population, with women being more susceptible than men. The onset can occur at any age, most often between 35 and 50 years, but it can also manifest during childhood. Joints in the feet, ankles, knees, wrists, and fingers are often affected. The chronic inflammation caused by RA can lead to tissue damage, resulting in chronic pain, unsteadiness, and deformity.
For more detailed information about RA and its effects, you can visit these resources:
Healthline,
Mayo Clinic,
CDC,
Everyday Health,
Verywell Health,
Johns Hopkins Medicine,
MSD Manuals.
