Rheumatoid Arthritis

Also known as: RA

A long-term autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, most often in the hands, wrists and feet.

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How it works · Inflammatory arthritis

A healthy joint

Smooth cartilage caps the bone ends, and a thin lining called the synovium makes fluid that keeps the joint gliding.

What it is

In rheumatoid arthritis the immune system targets the synovium, the thin lining that lubricates each joint. The lining becomes inflamed and thickened, and without treatment it can erode cartilage and bone. RA affects about 1 in 100 adults, is two to three times more common in women, and can also involve the lungs, eyes, skin and blood vessels.

Symptoms

Painful, swollen and warm joints, usually on both sides of the body. Morning stiffness that lasts longer than 30 to 60 minutes. Fatigue, low-grade fever and a general sense of feeling unwell are common, especially during flares.

How it’s diagnosed

Diagnosis combines your history and a joint exam with blood tests such as rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, ESR and CRP. X-rays or ultrasound can show inflammation and early damage. Some people test negative on blood work and still have RA.

Treatment

The goal is remission or low disease activity, started as early as possible. Methotrexate is usually the first disease-modifying medicine, often with a short course of steroids. If that is not enough, biologics or JAK inhibitors are added. Treatment is adjusted every few months until targets are reached.

Living with it

Regular exercise, a healthy weight, not smoking and good sleep all improve outcomes. People with RA have a higher risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, so blood pressure, cholesterol and bone health deserve attention too.

Psoriatic Arthritis →

At a glance