Rheumatoid arthritis, often referred to as RA, is an autoimmune disease of the bones and joints that can grow to affect other organs like the lungs and skin. RA is an idiopathic disease, which means its exact cause isn’t known. Still, as an autoimmune disease, we know that it involves immune cells of the body attacking normal cells and structures within the joints. This leads to painful, inflamed (swollen, warm and/or red) and sometimes deformed joints, especially in the hands and fingers. Over time, if RA gets worse it can also lead to difficulty breathing, increased risk of heart attacks, and little bumps under the skin called rheumatoid nodules.
RA most commonly occurs in older adults, especially in women over the age of 65, and the risk of developing RA increases with age. As an autoimmune disease, RA is not transmittable to other people. Yet, because there is a genetic component of RA, if one of your family members has it, you are more likely to develop it.
RA leads to two major kinds of symptoms. Symptoms associated with the joints, and symptoms associated with other parts of the body.
Joint-related symptoms:
Non-joint symptoms:
When non-joint symptoms of RA occur, they are usually a sign of more severe disease. Regardless, it is important to discuss any of the above symptoms with your doctor.
While the exact cause of RA is not known, certain individuals are at higher risk of developing RA in their lifetime. Risk factors include:
RA is diagnosed by a doctor’s assessment, not by one particular blood test. A doctor will typically listen to the history of the disease development, focusing especially on symptoms such as joint pain, weakness, and morning stiffness. The doctor will then conduct an examination to notice physical signs, such as joint deformities and swelling. Usually bloodwork is done next, looking for signs of autoimmunity and inflammation in the blood. X-rays are often done as well, to have a better look at the joints. All of these factors are added up to give the diagnosis of RA.
RA flare-ups are treated with medicines such as Ibuprofen and steroids. These help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. For long-term treatment, drugs known as DMARDS (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs) are usually given. The most commonly used DMARD for RA is called Methotrexate. Some people with RA may also need orthopaedic surgeries if they have severe joint deformities, but this is not typical. Physical therapy, on the other hand, is generally recommended for all people with RA, as it can increase joint mobility.