What Is Rheumatory Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis, also known as RA, is a type of arthritis that results in pain and inflammation. There is no cure for RA, but it can be treated with medications and sometimes surgery. If you experience pain or discomfort in your joints, see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

Significance

According to the Mayo Clinic, women are more likely to have rheumatoid arthritis than men. It also usually occurs in people between the ages of 40 and 60.

Features

Some of the common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint swelling and pain, fever, weight loss, fatigue, firm bumps on your arms under your skin and red or puffy hands.

Causes

Inflammation that occurs when white blood cells enter the membranes that surround the joints causes rheumatoid arthritis. This causes the release of proteins that can damage tendons, ligaments, bones and cartilage.

Diagnosis

To make an accurate diagnosis, your doctor will discuss all of your symptoms with you. She will then likely run blood tests and may also need X-rays and a joint fluid analysis.

Treatment

The primary goal of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is to ease inflammation to alleviate pain and reduce joint damage. Your doctor may prescribe medications such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants. However, if medications are not enough to treat your condition, you may need surgery.

References

• The Mayo Clinic: Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Arthritis Foundation: Rheumatoid Arthritis

Resources

• Medline Plus