What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

This disease affects the lining of your joints. It causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis may cause you to lose function in damaged joints.

What causes RA?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder. In this condition, your immune system, which normally protects your body, attacks the lining of your joints.

Researchers believe a combination of inherited genes and environment (such as infections from viruses or bacteria) cause the disease. People who smoke or are overweight have an increased risk of developing RA.

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What are the symptoms of RA?

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect most joints, including your:

• Hands
• Wrists
• Elbows
• Knees
• Balls of the feet

The disease often affects the same joint on both sides of your body. Symptoms may include:

• Tender, swollen inflamed joints. They may also look red and feel warm.
• Stiff joints. Long periods of rest or using a joint too long or too hard can make stiffness worse.
• Joints that have lost normal shape and motion.
• Feeling tired.

How is RA diagnosed?

To diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history and symptoms. He or she will examine you, paying close attention to your joints. You will also have blood tests and x-rays. Your doctor will likely recommend that you see a rheumatologist, an arthritis specialist.

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