Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissue. It is a symmetrical disorder, meaning it affects the same joints on both sides of the body. The most commonly affected joints are those in the hands, wrists, and feet, although it can also affect the shoulders, elbows, knees, ankles, and hips.

RA is a systemic disease, meaning it can affect multiple organs and systems in the body. It is characterized by the presence of inflammation and swelling in the joints, which can lead to joint damage, deformity, and disability. RA is also associated with an increased risk of other health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, lung disease, and osteoporosis.

The exact cause of RA is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with a family history of RA are more likely to develop the condition, and certain genetic markers have been identified that may increase the risk. Environmental factors, such as smoking and exposure to certain toxins, may also play a role.

RA is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. In the case of RA, the immune system attacks the synovial tissue that lines the joints. This leads to inflammation and swelling in the joints, which can cause joint damage and deformity.

The inflammation in RA is caused by the activation of immune cells called T-cells and B-cells. These cells produce inflammatory chemicals, such as cytokines and autoantibodies, which contribute to the inflammation and damage in the joints.

RA is typically diagnosed based on a combination of clinical symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The most common symptoms of RA include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, especially in the morning. Other common symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, and a low-grade fever.

RA is a chronic disorder that typically requires long-term treatment. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, slow joint damage, and improve function and quality of life. Treatment options for RA include medications, physical therapy, and surgery. Medications used to treat RA include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics. Physical therapy can help improve mobility and function, and surgery may be necessary in some cases to repair or replace damaged joints.

In conclusion, rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and joint damage. It is a systemic disease that can affect multiple organs and systems in the body, and is associated with an increased risk of other health problems. RA is typically treated with medications, physical therapy, and surgery, and the goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, slow joint damage, and improve function and quality of life.