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Introduction Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that mainly affects the joints. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, causing inflammation in the lining of the joints. Over time, persistent inflammation can damage cartilage, bones, and surrounding tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the hands, wrists, feet, knees, and other joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is mainly caused by wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition and can affect other organs as well.
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not completely understood. It is thought to result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and immune-system factors.
Factors that may increase the risk include:
Family history of rheumatoid arthritis
Smoking
Certain infections
Obesity
Hormonal factors
Other autoimmune conditions
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Common symptoms include:
Joint pain and swelling
Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
Warmth and tenderness around the joints
Difficulty moving the affected joints
Fatigue
Weakness
Reduced appetite
Mild fever
Joint deformities in advanced disease
A typical feature of RA is symmetrical joint involvement, meaning the same joints on both sides of the body may be affected.
Morning Stiffness
Morning stiffness lasting more than 30–60 minutes is commonly seen in rheumatoid arthritis. The stiffness may improve gradually with movement but can return after periods of inactivity.
How Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect the Body?
Rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the joints, but prolonged inflammation can sometimes affect other parts of the body, including:
Skin
Eyes
Lungs
Heart
Blood vessels
Nerves
Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Diagnosis
There is no single test that can definitively diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors usually combine medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies.
Tests may include:
Rheumatoid factor (RF)
Anti-CCP antibodies
ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
CRP (C-reactive protein)
Complete blood count
X-rays
Ultrasound or MRI of affected joints
A rheumatologist is the specialist who commonly evaluates and manages rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatment
There is currently no permanent cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but appropriate treatment can control inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent joint damage.
Treatment may include:
1. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
These medicines help slow the progression of the disease.
2. Biologic medicines
Biologic therapies may be recommended when conventional treatments do not adequately control the disease.
3. Pain-relieving medicines
These may help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Physiotherapy and exercise
Appropriate exercises can help maintain joint flexibility, muscle strength, and mobility.
5. Lifestyle changes
Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, eating a balanced diet, and getting adequate rest may support overall health.
Exercise for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Regular, gentle physical activity can be beneficial. Depending on the severity of the condition, activities may include:
Walking
Swimming
Cycling
Stretching exercises
Range-of-motion exercises
Strength training under professional guidance
During severe flare-ups, strenuous exercise should be avoided and medical advice should be followed.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Consult a doctor if you have persistent joint pain, swelling, or morning stiffness, particularly if symptoms continue for several weeks or involve multiple joints.
Early diagnosis and treatment are important because untreated inflammation can lead to permanent joint damage and disability.
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Dr. Karthikeyan S. MBBS.,