An Introduction to Rheumatoid Arthritis

Answer 1

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that effects the joints. Most commonly, the disease manifests in the joints of the hands and feet. The disease causes the immune system to attack the body's tissues and can lead to severe joint damage and other issues.

What are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis may experience swelling or tenderness in the joints, stiffness in the early hours of the day, bumpy masses of tissue under the skin, weight loss, unusual tiredness and fever. During the early stages of the disease, patients may notice pain in the joints of the hands and feet. Eventually, symptoms may spread to other joints like the knees, hips or shoulders. Symptoms often flare up, becoming severe for a period of time, before calming during a remission period.

What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Doctors are not sure what causes the immune system to attack the body's own tissues, but the disease is likely genetic.

What are the Risk Factors for Developing Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Numerous factors may affect the risk of developing this disease. Women and the elderly are more likely than men or young people to develop the disease. Rheumatoid arthritis may also run in families. Smoking is also a risk factor.

What are the Complications of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect more than just joints. Patients diagnosed with the rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk for developing osteoporosis, a disease that weakens the skeleton and can cause bone fractures. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause cardiovascular problems, carpal tunnel syndrome and lung disease.

How is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?

Rheumatoid arthritis can be a challenge to diagnose because the symptoms are often similar to those of other diseases. There is no one procedure that can be done to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis but doctors may perform a physical exam, blood tests or x-rays to diagnose the disease.