Rheumatoid Arthritis

Overview

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints (synovium), causing inflammation that can lead to joint damage, bone erosion, and deformity over time. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, RA is driven by immune dysfunction and can affect joints on both sides of the body symmetrically. Common symptoms include morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, joint swelling, tenderness, and fatigue. RA can also affect other organs, including the lungs, heart, and eyes. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic therapies are critical to slowing disease progression and preserving joint function.