Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation primarily in the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own joint tissues. This leads to painful swelling, joint stiffness, and in some cases, joint deformity and bone erosion.

RA most commonly affects small joints like those in the hands, wrists, and feet, but it can also involve larger joints such as knees, shoulders, and hips. It typically presents symmetrically—meaning if one side is affected, the other side usually is too. RA can also affect other organs, including the lungs, heart, and eyes.

This condition can begin at any age but is most frequently diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 60. Women are more likely than men to develop RA. Because it is systemic in nature, rheumatoid arthritis is more than just a joint disease; it can significantly affect overall health and quality of life.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to manage symptoms and prevent long-term joint damage. Treatment typically involves medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, physiotherapy or joint interventions. Understanding the nature of RA is the first step toward managing it effectively and improving day-to-day function.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) symptoms usually develop gradually, beginning with minor joint discomfort and progressing to more severe inflammation.

Hallmark symptoms:

• Persistent joint pain

• Swelling

• Stiffness

• Redness (especially noticeable in the morning or after inactivity)

Patients may also experience:

• Fatigue

• Low-grade fever

• Overall feeling of malaise

Distinguishing feature: Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes, making simple tasks (e.g., buttoning a shirt, holding a cup) difficult.

Systemic symptoms:

• Weight loss

• Dry eyes

• Skin nodules near affected joints

In advanced stages, RA can cause:

• Joint deformities

• Limited mobility

• Difficulty walking or performing daily activities

Symptoms vary from person to person:

• Some have flare-ups with temporary worsening, followed by remission

• Others experience continuous, progressively worsening symptoms

Important note:

• Ongoing joint pain or stiffness, especially in symmetrical joints, requires medical consultation.

• Early recognition allows prompt treatment, reducing joint damage and improving long-term outcomes.

The exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis remains unclear, but it is widely recognized as an autoimmune disorder—meaning the body’s immune system attacks its own healthy tissue. This leads to chronic inflammation in the joint lining (synovium), eventually damaging cartilage and bone.

Several factors contribute to the development of RA, including:

• Genetics: Certain genetic markers (like HLA-DR4) increase the likelihood of developing RA.
   
• Environmental triggers: Smoking, exposure to silica, and certain infections may activate the immune system in genetically susceptible individuals.
   
• Hormonal influences: Women are more affected, suggesting that hormones like estrogen may play a role.
   
• Immune system dysfunction: In RA, the immune system fails to distinguish between healthy cells and harmful agents, leading to chronic inflammation.
   

Additional risk factors include age (usually between 30–60), a family history of RA, smoking, and obesity. While RA is not directly inherited, family members of affected individuals do have a higher risk.

Although you cannot always prevent RA, early intervention can help control the disease, manage flare-ups, and reduce the risk of complications. Understanding the underlying causes is vital for both patients and healthcare professionals to design an effective treatment plan that improves quality of life.

Diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Since symptoms can mimic other joint disorders, a precise and early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

Doctors begin by reviewing your medical history and symptoms, followed by a physical examination to check for joint swelling, tenderness, and symmetry of symptoms. Blood tests are commonly used to detect markers of inflammation and autoantibodies, such as:

• Rheumatoid Factor (RF)
   
• Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies
   
• Elevated ESR or CRP levels
   

Not all patients test positive for these markers, especially in early stages, so clinical judgment remains crucial.

Imaging techniques such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI can help assess joint damage and inflammation levels. These tools not only confirm the diagnosis but also serve as baselines to monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness over time.

Timely diagnosis allows for early treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and other therapies, significantly improving outcomes and slowing joint damage. If you're experiencing persistent joint pain and stiffness, don’t delay seeking expert evaluation.