Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is a systemic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints. The patient presents with early morning stiffness of at least half an hour, and warm, painful, and swollen joints. One-fifth of patients develop lumps known as rheumatoid nodules under their skin. Usually, multiple joints are affected in a symmetrical pattern so joints on both hands, arms, legs, and feet feel stiff, painful, and swollen at the same time.  This disease most commonly affects the middle age population. Females are affected more commonly than males with a ratio of 3:1. It also affects the other systems of the body mainly the lungs and heart. Fever and tiredness may also be present. Often, symptoms come on gradually over weeks to months. 

While the cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not clear, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The underlying mechanism involves the body's immune system attacking the joints. The goals of treatment are to reduce pain, decrease inflammation and improve a person's overall functioning. This disease can be very well controlled by cDMARDS, tsDMARDS, and biologicals. Exercise and physiotherapy also play a role in maintaining the activity of patients.