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Rheumatoid Arthritis
Moderate
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily causes inflammation of the joints. The immune system mistakenly attacks tissues around the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced movement. It often affects the hands, wrists and feet symmetrically, but can involve other joints and organs. Persistent inflammation can damage joints and affect overall health.
Body System
Bones & Joints
When to Seek Medical Attention
Rheumatoid arthritis requires ongoing medical assessment because untreated inflammation can progressively damage joints and affect other organs. Seek prompt care for rapidly worsening joint swelling, severe pain, significant functional decline, or new systemic symptoms. Urgent evaluation is appropriate for chest pain, severe shortness of breath, sudden neurological symptoms, or other potentially serious complications.
Symptoms
4
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily causes inflammation of the joints. The immune system mistakenly attacks tissues around the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced movement. It often affects the hands, wrists and feet symmetrically, but can involve other joints and organs. Persistent inflammation can damage joints and affect overall health.
Symptoms 4
Back Pain
Bone Pain
Fever
Lower Back Pain
Causes 3
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. It develops through a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental influences that affect the immune system. Smoking and certain infections or environmental exposures may contribute to disease development in susceptible people. Hormonal and other immune-related factors may also play a role.
Autoimmune Disorder
Genetics
Smoking
Risk Factors
Risk factors include having certain genetic traits, being female, increasing age and having a family history of rheumatoid arthritis. Smoking is an important modifiable risk factor. Obesity and some environmental exposures may also contribute. The disease can occur in people without any known risk factor.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination, blood tests and imaging. Blood tests may measure rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies and assess inflammation. X-rays, ultrasound or MRI can show joint inflammation or damage. No single test confirms rheumatoid arthritis in every person, so the overall clinical picture is considered.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Rheumatoid arthritis cannot always be prevented because genetic and immune factors contribute to its development
Avoiding tobacco use is an important way to reduce risk
Maintaining a healthy weight and addressing other modifiable health factors may also be beneficial
Early medical evaluation of persistent joint swelling and stiffness allows appropriate treatment to begin before significant joint damage develops
Prevention Guidance
Rheumatoid arthritis cannot always be prevented because genetic and immune factors contribute to its development. Avoiding tobacco use is an important way to reduce risk. Maintaining a healthy weight and addressing other modifiable health factors may also be beneficial. Early medical evaluation of persistent joint swelling and stiffness allows appropriate treatment to begin before significant joint damage develops.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Omega-3 Foods
May reduce inflammation
Fresh Fruits
Rich in antioxidants
Vegetables
Support joint health
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods
May increase inflammation
Sugary Foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation.
Joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness.
Yes, it may affect lungs, eyes, and blood vessels.
There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed.
It helps prevent joint damage.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.