Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that typically affects the small joints in your hands, feet, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. It usually affects joints on both sides of the body. RA is an autoimmune disorder; it occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your body's own tissues.

RA affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity. RA can sometimes affect other organs of the body such as the skin, eyes, lungs, and blood vessels.

Approximately 1.5 million people in the United States have RA. Nearly three times as many women have the disease as men. Although RA can occur at any age, it usually begins after age 40.

There is no cure for RA, and treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage. This can be accomplished with lifestyle changes and medicines.

The cause of RA is not yet fully understood, although doctors do know that an abnormal response of the immune system plays a leading role in the inflammation and joint damage that occurs. No one knows for sure why the immune system begins attacking its own body, but there is scientific evidence that genes, hormones, and environmental factors are involved. Genes likely do not actually cause RA, but they can make you more susceptible to environmental factors — such as infection with certain viruses and bacteria — that may trigger the disease. If you have a family member with RA, you may have an increased chance of developing the disease.

See your doctor early for joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, especially in the hands and feet. Early treatment can prevent permanent joint damage.