Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the joints—especially in the hands, wrists, feet, and ankles. Over time, it can damage cartilage and bone, leading to joint deformity, reduced mobility, and pain during everyday activities like gripping, walking, or even wearing shoes.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
RA is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues, especially the synovial membrane—the layer that produces lubricating fluid. This triggers inflammation, which thickens the membrane and gradually erodes cartilage and bone. Larger joints like knees and shoulders can also be affected in advanced stages.
In some rare forms, RA may involve internal organs or cause systemic complications like Felty’s syndrome (low white blood cells with spleen enlargement) or Caplan syndrome (lung involvement).
Symptoms to Watch For
RA typically affects joints on both sides of the body. Early signs often include:
- Persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness—especially in the morning (lasting over 30 minutes)
- Symmetrical involvement of small joints in the fingers, hands, and feet
- Limited movement or discomfort in daily tasks
As the disease progresses, other signs may develop:
- Swelling in joints that don’t hurt yet
- Visible joint deformities
- Muscle weakness due to lack of use
- Fatigue, low-grade fever, loss of appetite, or weight loss
- Firm nodules near joints (especially in hands, elbows, feet)
Causes and Risk Factors
- Family history of autoimmune disease
- Smoking
- Obesity or diets high in unhealthy fats
- Vitamin D deficiency (possibly linked to low sunlight exposure)
- Hormonal changes (RA is more common in women aged 40–60)
- Poor oral hygiene (linked to inflammation)
- Certain viruses, such as Epstein-Barr or herpes virus 6
How RA Is Diagnosed
Diagnosing RA can be tricky, especially early on, since symptoms overlap with other joint disorders. Doctors typically rely on:
- Blood tests for rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibodies
- Signs of inflammation like elevated ESR or CRP levels
- Joint imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI) to detect bone erosion or synovial thickening
- Synovial fluid analysis, when needed, to confirm joint inflammation
Treatment Options
There is no cure for RA, but early treatment can slow its progression and reduce pain. Common treatment strategies include:
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) to ease pain and swelling
- Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) for short-term inflammation control
- DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) to slow disease progression—includes methotrexate, leflunomide, and biologics like TNF inhibitors
In severe cases, joint surgery or prosthetic implants may be needed. Physical therapy also plays a vital role in maintaining strength and range of motion.
Lifestyle and Diet
- Light exercise such as walking or swimming to maintain joint mobility
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and support joints
- Avoiding excess stress on joints (no high-impact workouts)
Diet can also play a supportive role. The Mediterranean diet—rich in vegetables, fruits, olive oil, and fatty fish—is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Foods high in omega-3s and antioxidants may help reduce symptoms, while processed and fatty foods should be minimized.