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Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and potential loss of function. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, RA occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, known as the synovium. This immune response triggers inflammation, which can damage cartilage and bone over time. Although RA commonly affects the hands, wrists, and knees, it can involve multiple joints and sometimes impact other organs such as the heart, lungs, and eyes.
One of the most challenging aspects of RA is its unpredictability. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and often fluctuate in intensity. Common early signs include joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, swelling, tenderness, and warmth around the affected joints. Fatigue, low-grade fever, and loss of appetite may also…