Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, swelling, and stiffness. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to damage and deformity.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects the synovium, the tissue that lines the joints. The synovium produces fluid that lubricates the joints and helps them move smoothly. In RA, the immune system attacks the synovium, causing it to become inflamed and thickened. This leads to the production of excess fluid, which can cause the joint to swell and become painful.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Joint pain and stiffness: Pain and stiffness in the joints, especially in the hands, feet, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, and shoulders.
• Swelling and redness: Swelling and redness around the affected joints.
• Morning stiffness: Stiffness in the joints that lasts for more than an hour after waking up.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak, even after resting.
• Loss of range of motion: Difficulty moving the affected joints through their full range of motion.
• Deformity: Permanent damage to the joints, leading to deformity and loss of function.
• Fever: Low-grade fever, which can occur in some cases.
• Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss, which can occur in some cases.

Causes and Risk Factors of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known, but several factors are thought to contribute to its development, including:

• Genetics: Family history plays a role in the development of RA.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as smoking and air pollution, may trigger the onset of RA.
• Hormonal factors: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, may contribute to the development of RA.
• Autoimmune disorders: Presence of other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or thyroid disease, increases the risk of developing RA.

Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis

The goal of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent joint damage. Treatment options include:

• Medications:
  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): Methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and leflunomide are commonly used to slow the progression of RA.
  • Biologics: Etanercept, adalimumab, and infliximab are used to reduce inflammation and prevent joint damage.
  • Corticosteroids: Prednisone is used to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen and naproxen are used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Exercise and physical therapy can help improve joint mobility and strength.
• Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy can help individuals with RA adapt to their condition and maintain independence.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged joints.
• Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and quitting smoking can help manage RA symptoms.

Complications of Rheumatoid Arthritis

If left untreated or undertreated, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to several complications, including:

• Joint damage: Permanent damage to the joints, leading to deformity and loss of function.
• Osteoporosis: Increased risk of osteoporosis due to chronic inflammation and corticosteroid use.
• Infections: Increased risk of infections, such as pneumonia and tuberculosis, due to immunosuppression.
• Cardiovascular disease: Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes.
• Cancer: Increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and lung cancer.