Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints but can also impact other body systems. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is related to joint wear over time, RA results from an immune system imbalance, causing it to attack the body’s healthy tissues.
If not properly treated, RA can lead to joint deformities, loss of function, and a significant decline in quality of life. Early diagnosis and continuous care with a rheumatologist are essential.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
RA is a systemic autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. It is primarily characterized by chronic joint inflammation, especially in the hands, wrists, feet, and knees, but it may also affect the eyes, skin, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.
This persistent inflammation can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and eventually destroy joint cartilage and bone, leading to deformity.
What Are the Symptoms?
Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:
- Persistent joint pain
- Swelling and redness in the joints
- Prolonged morning stiffness (usually over 30 minutes)
- Severe fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite and weight
- General feeling of unwellness
In advanced stages, joint deformities and limited mobility may occur. RA often evolves in flare-ups, alternating between periods of worsening and improvement (remission).
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The exact cause is unknown, but a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and immune factors is believed to be involved.
Risk factors include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Female sex (more common in women)
- Age between 30 and 60
- Smoking
- Previous viral or bacterial infections
- Hormonal imbalances
RA is not contagious, but lifestyle can influence both its onset and progression.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, patient history, and physical examination. Tests help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions:
- Blood tests: Rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, CRP, and ESR (inflammation markers)
- X-rays and MRI: Assess joint integrity and detect early damage
- Joint ultrasound: Identifies early inflammation and erosion
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent progression.
How Is It Treated?
The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, prevent deformities, and preserve joint function. It must be personalized and supervised by a rheumatologist.
Medications
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Relieve pain and inflammation
- Corticosteroids: Used during acute flare-ups
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): e.g., methotrexate, leflunomide
- Biologic agents: e.g., adalimumab, etanercept, tocilizumab for moderate to severe cases
Physical Therapy and Exercise
Physical therapy helps maintain mobility and muscle strength. Light exercises like walking, stretching, and water aerobics are recommended under professional guidance.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Quit smoking
- Maintain a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet
- Avoid inactivity
- Manage stress
In severe cases with joint destruction, surgery may be needed to correct deformities or replace damaged joints.
Is There a Cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
No. RA is a chronic autoimmune disease. While it has no cure, it can be effectively controlled with proper treatment. Many people live active, normal lives by following medical guidance.
Possible Complications
Without treatment, RA can lead to:
- Permanent joint deformities
- Damage to internal organs
- Osteoporosis
- Recurring infections
- Increased cardiovascular risk
Regular follow-up with a rheumatologist is essential.
Myths and Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis
“It’s the same as osteoarthritis.” ❌ False. RA is inflammatory and autoimmune; osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear.
“Arthritis only affects the elderly.” ❌ False. RA can develop in young adults and even children (juvenile idiopathic arthritis).
“If I’m pain-free, I can stop treatment.” ❌ False. No symptoms don’t mean the disease is gone. Stopping treatment may trigger flare-ups.
“Cold weather makes arthritis worse.” ✅ Partially true. Cold doesn’t cause RA, but it may worsen joint stiffness and discomfort.
