Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Key Symptoms, Causes, and Management Tips

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent joint inflammation. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, leading to tissue swelling and thickening, which causes pain and potential joint damage over time. Commonly affected areas include the hands, wrists, elbows, and ankles. If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can impact other systems like the heart and lungs, resulting in significant disability.

Initially, symptoms may be mild and sporadic, but they tend to worsen over weeks and months. Each individual may experience different symptoms, which can vary daily. Typical signs include:

Joint stiffness – Often affecting smaller joints, stiffness commonly occurs in hands and can spread to the lower body within days.

Joint pain – Pain arises during movement or at rest, primarily in fingers and knees, progressing to shoulders and feet.

Fatigue – Persistent exhaustion results from the body responding to ongoing inflammation, impacting energy levels and mood.

Swelling – Joints may appear swollen, limiting movement and causing stiffness, particularly in fingers and toes.

Numbness – Pressure on nerves from inflammation can cause tingling and numbness in extremities.

Fever – Inflammation can be accompanied by a mild fever, indicating active disease.

Risk factors include gender (women are more affected), family history, age (commonly after 40), obesity, and smoking. Though currently incurable, managing symptoms involves lifestyle adjustments such as adequate rest, gentle exercise, intake of anti-inflammatory foods like fish oil, and applying cold packs for pain relief.