Rheumatoid Arthritis

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), is a chronic inflammatory disorder that most typically begins in the small joints in your hands and feet. However, the course can begin with other nonspecific symptoms, such as tiredness. After attacking the smaller joints of the body, RA often progresses into larger joints, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. Symptoms include joint pain, swelling, red and puffy hands, and fatigue. RA degrades the lining of the joints and causes swelling that is painful and can lead to joint deformity in the affected joints. Rheumatoid Arthritis tends to worsen over time. Though there is no permanent cure, the course of the disease can be modified so that the damage is less, the patient is more comfortable and the patient can continue to engage in and enjoy daily activities. Treatment is most effective when it is begun as early as possible, before the process of deformity is far progressed, but some relief can be offered by treatment at any stage.