Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

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 Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints (the synovium). This causes inflammation, pain, stiffness, and joint damage over time.

It commonly affects the hands, wrists, knees, and feet, but it can also affect other organs such as the lungs, heart, and eyes.

⚕️ What Happens in RA

  • The immune system attacks joint tissue → causes inflammation.

  • The inflamed synovium thickens → leads to swelling and pain.

  • Over time, it can erode cartilage and bone, causing deformity and disability if untreated.

🩸 Common Symptoms

  • Joint pain, tenderness, and stiffness (especially in the morning)

  • Swelling and warmth in joints

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Symmetrical symptoms (both sides of the body)

  • Low-grade fever or weight loss (sometimes)

⚠️ Causes & Risk Factors

  • Autoimmune reaction (body attacking its own tissue)

  • Genetics (family history of RA)

  • Environmental triggers (e.g., infections, smoking)

  • Gender – more common in women

  • Age – often starts between ages 30–60

💊 Treatment Overview

Treatment aims to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent joint damage.
Early, aggressive treatment helps preserve joint function.

1. Medications

CategoryExamplesPurpose
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)Ibuprofen, NaproxenReduce pain and inflammation
CorticosteroidsPrednisoneFast inflammation control (short-term)
DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs)Methotrexate, Hydroxychloroquine, LeflunomideSlow disease progression and prevent joint damage
Biologic AgentsEnbrel (etanercept), Humira (adalimumab), Remicade (infliximab)Target immune pathways that cause inflammation
JAK InhibitorsXeljanz (tofacitinib), Rinvoq (upadacitinib)Block signals inside immune cells that fuel inflammation

2. Physical & Occupational Therapy

  • Maintain joint flexibility and strength

  • Learn joint protection techniques

  • Use braces or splints if needed

3. Lifestyle & Home Care

  • Regular low-impact exercise (swimming, yoga, walking)


  • Healthy anti-inflammatory diet (fish, leafy greens, olive oil)

  • Quit smoking

  • Heat/cold therapy for pain relief

  • Adequate rest and stress management

4. Surgery (for severe damage)

If joints are badly damaged and non-surgical treatments fail:

  • Synovectomy: Removes inflamed joint lining

  • Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Artificial joint implant

  • Joint fusion: Stabilizes damaged joint

🧠 Long-Term Management

  • Regular rheumatologist visits

  • Routine blood tests to monitor inflammation and medication effects

  • Stay active, maintain healthy weight

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