Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an ongoing, called chronic, condition that causes pain, swelling and irritation, called inflammation, in the joints. But it also can damage other parts of the body. These may include the skin, eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels. Rheumatoid arthritis happens when the immune system attacks its own body's tissues by mistake. This is called an autoimmune condition. Rheumatoid arthritis differs from the more common osteoarthritis. Some people have both. Osteoarthritis causes damage to joints from overuse. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of the joints and eats away at the bone under them. This causes a painful swelling that can cause joints to bend out of shape over time, called deformity.

The inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis also can damage other parts of the body. New medicines have improved treatment choices greatly. But rheumatoid arthritis still can cause long-term damage and increase the risk of heart disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to discomfort, stiffness, and long-term complications if left unmanaged.

• Swollen, warm joints often begin in the hands and feet and may worsen over time.
• Stiffness is most common in the morning or after rest and may last more than 45 minutes.
• Fatigue, low-grade fever, and a loss of appetite are early signs of systemic inflammation.
• As symptoms progress, larger joints like knees, hips, and ankles may also become affected.
• Most cases show a symmetrical pattern, with the same joints on both sides of the body impacted.
• Other body systems including skin, lungs, eyes, and heart may also show signs of inflammation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis early is vital, but initial symptoms often resemble other joint conditions, making it challenging.

• Doctors examine joints for swelling, warmth, and redness during the physical check-up.
• Blood tests measure CRP, ESR, rheumatoid factor, and anti-CCP antibodies to confirm inflammation.
• X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds help track joint changes and severity over time.

Treatment Options

While rheumatoid arthritis has no cure, early use of DMARDs and personalized care plans can help achieve long-term remission.

• NSAIDs relieve pain and swelling but may cause heart, kidney, or stomach issues with long use.
• Steroids like prednisone offer quick relief but carry risks like weight gain and brittle bones.
• DMARDs such as methotrexate or leflunomide slow disease progression and preserve joint health.
• Biologic agents target immune response and are usually paired with traditional DMARDs.
• Targeted synthetic DMARDs are used when other treatments fail but may carry higher risks.

Therapy & Surgery

Rehabilitation and, if necessary, surgery can support mobility, reduce pain, and improve joint function when medication isn’t enough.

• Therapists teach safe ways to move joints and suggest tools for easier daily tasks.
• Assistive devices like grip-friendly tools reduce stress on inflamed or weak joints.
• Surgery may involve joint replacement or repair to restore function and reduce severe pain.