Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints usually affects the hands, feet, and wrists. RA happens when the immune system (which usually fights infection) doesn’t work properly and attacks joint linings, known as synovium, making the joints swollen, stiff, and painful. Over time, this can damage the joints, cartilage, and nearby bone.
Researchers aren’t sure why some people develop RA. They think that these individuals have certain genes that are activated by a trigger in the environment, like a virus or bacteria, or physical or emotional stress, or some other external factor.
RA usually affects multiple joints and can even cause problems in the eyes, heart, or lungs. It usually develops in middle age and affects more women than men.
Getting an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible is the first step to treating RA effectively. There is no signal test that detects RA. Diagnosis is almost always made or confirmed by a consultant rheumatologist using medical history, a physical examination, and lab tests.
There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. But clinical studies indicate that remission of symptoms is more likely when treatment begins early with medications known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic agents. These drugs can target parts of the immune system that trigger inflammation that causes joint and tissue damage.
There is also a range of supportive treatments available such as physiotherapy, and occupational therapy that helps keep mobile and manage any problems with daily activities. In rare cases, surgery is required to restore movement in the joint although in some cases a joint replacement may be required.