Overview of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints and other parts of the body. It is a systemic disease that can cause inflammation and damage to the tissues and organs in the body. RA typically affects the small joints in the hands, feet, and wrists, but it can also affect the larger joints, such as the knees, hips, and shoulders.

RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, particularly the synovial membranes that line the joints. This causes inflammation, which can lead to joint damage, pain, and stiffness. Over time, the inflammation can also affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs, heart, and eyes.

Symptoms of RA can vary from person to person, but they often include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as fatigue, fever, and weight loss. These symptoms can come and go, and they can be mild or severe.

There is no cure for RA, but there are many treatments available that can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. These treatments can include medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents, as well as physical therapy and lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged joints.