What Is It?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks own joints. This leads to inflammation, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness of joints.
Who Gets It?
- RA can occur at any age but is most common between 30 and 60 years.
- It affects women more than men with male to female ratio of 1:3.
Why does it happen?
- It is an autoimmune disease; whereby immune system starts reacting against cells and tissue of oneself. The exact cause is unknown, but genetics, hormones, and environmental factors like smoking can contribute.
Common Symptoms
- Pain, swelling, and stiffness in multiple joints (especially small joints of hands and feet)
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Fatigue, low-grade fever, and loss of appetite
- In long-standing disease, deformity of joints may occur if untreated.
How It’s Diagnosed
- Symptoms and clinical examination of joints
- Blood tests – ESR, CRP, Rheumatoid Factor (RF), Anti-CCP antibody
- Imaging – X-ray, Ultrasound, or MRI to assess joint inflammation and damage
Usually, combination of above is used to make diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.
Does Rheumatoid Arthritis affect other organs?
Apart from joints, Rheumatoid Arthritis can affect other organs like lungs, eyes, salivary & lacrimal glands, and blood vessels.
Treatment Options
- The aim of Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment is to improve joint pain, swelling and stiffness.
- Starting treatment early in the course of the disease improves chance of good treatment response and prevents joints from having damage.
- No single treatment works for all the patients of Rheumatoid Arthritis, and each patient requires individualized treatment plan according to their disease.
Medications:
Medications used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis are divided in the following groups:
- Conventional DMARDs such as methotrexate, leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine and iguratimod.
- Biologic agents or targeted synthetic DMARDs
- Short-term steroids or NSAIDs for pain relief
Lifestyle:
- Regular gentle exercise to maintain mobility
- Balanced diet and adequate rest
- Avoid smoking
Monitoring:
- Periodic blood tests and clinical follow-up
Never stop or change medicines without consulting your rheumatologist.
Self-Care & Daily Tips
- Take medicines as prescribed
- Do simple stretching and strengthening exercises
- Keep weight under control
- Stay updated with recommended vaccinations
Outlook
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most people with RA can lead active and productive lives. Modern medicines can effectively control inflammation and prevent joint damage.
When to Contact Your Doctor
- Sudden increase in joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- Fever, cough, or breathlessness while on treatment
- Mouth ulcers, unusual bleeding, or severe fatigue (possible drug side effects)
- Any new rash or allergic reaction
Myths
- Rheumatoid arthritis happens only in old age
- Exercise worsens joint pain
- It’s caused by diet
Facts
- It can affect young adults too.
- Regular gentle exercise keeps joints flexible.
- RA is autoimmune, though a healthy diet supports management.
