What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a condition where your immune system (body’s defense system) starts attacking the joints by mistake.
This causes Pain, Swelling, Stiffness, and Tiredness. Rheumatoid Arthritis is different from normal arthritis (wear and tear with age) because it is an Autoimmune Disease. Over time, it can damage cartilage, bone, and surrounding tissues.
Common Symptoms
Painful, swollen, and stiff joints (often worse in the morning or after rest)
Symmetrical involvement (both sides of the body, e.g., both hands or both knees)
Warmth and redness around joints
Fatigue, weakness, low-grade fever
Rheumatoid nodules (firm lumps under the skin) in some patients
Causes & Risk Factors
Painful, swollen, and stiff joints (often worse in the morning or after rest)
Symmetrical involvement (both sides of the body, e.g., both hands or both knees)
Warmth and redness around joints
Fatigue, weakness, low-grade fever
Rheumatoid nodules (firm lumps under the skin) in some patients
Diagnosis
Doctors use a combination of:
Medical history & physical examination
Blood tests – Rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, CRP
Imaging tests – X-ray, ultrasound, MRI (to detect joint damage & inflammation)
Treatment Options
RA cannot be completely cured, but early and effective treatment helps control symptoms and prevent joint damage.
Medications
NSAIDs (for pain & inflammation relief)
Corticosteroids (short-term use for flare-ups)
DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs – e.g., methotrexate)
Biologic agents (targeted therapy for resistant cases)
Lifestyle Management
Regular exercise & physiotherapy (to maintain mobility).
Balanced diet (anti-inflammatory foods, omega-3 rich diet).
Stress management & adequate sleep.
Quit smoking & maintain healthy weight.
Surgery (in severe cases)
Joint replacement or repair to restore mobility.
Take the first step towards relief from joint pain and stiffness
Book your appointment with our Rheumatology specialist today for expert care and personalized treatment.