## Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comprehensive Guide
### Introduction
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, particularly in the hands, feet, knees, and wrists. It is characterized by inflammation of the joint lining (synovium), leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear of the joints, RA is an inflammatory arthritis that can affect people of all ages.
### Symptoms
The most common symptoms of RA include:
* **Pain:** Pain in the joints, especially after periods of rest
* **Swelling:** Increased size of the affected joints
* **Stiffness:** Difficulty moving the affected joints, particularly in the morning
* **Weakness:** Reduced strength in the affected joints
* **Fatigue:** Extreme tiredness and lack of energy
### Diagnosis
RA diagnosis typically involves:
* **Physical Examination:** A doctor will examine the joints for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
* **Blood Test:** A blood test can check for the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, which are often associated with RA.
* **X-ray:** An X-ray can show joint damage and narrowing of the joint space.
* **Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):** An MRI can provide more detailed images of the joints to assess the severity of the disease.
### Prevention
There is currently no known way to prevent RA. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help slow disease progression and prevent complications.
### Treatment
RA treatment aims to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and prevent joint damage. Treatment options include:
**Medications:**
* **Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs):** These medications suppress the immune system to control inflammation, including methotrexate, leflunomide, and sulfasalazine.
* **Corticosteroids:** These medications reduce inflammation but have potential side effects, including weight gain and bone loss.
* **Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):** These over-the-counter medications relieve pain and inflammation.
**Surgery:**
* **Joint replacement:** Surgery may be necessary to replace severely damaged joints.
* **Synovectomy:** Removal of the inflamed synovium lining the joints.
**Other Therapies:**
* **Physical Therapy:** Exercises to improve joint range of motion and strength.
* **Occupational Therapy:** Training in activities of daily living to reduce pain and improve function.
### Complications
Untreated RA can lead to several complications, including:
* Joint damage and deformity
* Loss of mobility
* Osteoporosis (bone loss)
* Carpal tunnel syndrome (nerve compression in the wrist)
* Fibromyalgia (widespread muscle pain)
### Related Terms
* **Synovitis:** Inflammation of the joint lining (synovium)
* **Tenosynovitis:** Inflammation of the tendon sheaths
* **Osteoporosis:** Reduced bone density
* **Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:** Compression of the median nerve in the wrist
* **Fibromyalgia:** Chronic widespread muscle pain
