Definition
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disorder of the joints. It causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints.
Causes
RA is caused by a problem with the immune system. It begins to attack healthy tissue. It is not clear what makes this happen. It is most likely a combination of factors in your genes and environment. Some known factors include:
- Genes—people with RA often have a specific genetic defect
- Defects in the immune system—may stop the immune cells from recognizing the body’s own tissues
- Infection with specific viruses or bacteria—may start an abnormal immune response
- Chemical or hormonal imbalances in the body
Risk Factors
RA is more common in:
- Women
- People aged 30 to 60 years
Other factors that may increase your chance of developing RA include:
- Family members with RA
- Heavy or long term smoking
Symptoms
Symptoms involve two or more joints which are usually:
- Smaller joints
- The same joints on both sides of the body
Symptoms include:
- Increased pain and stiffness in the morning and after inactivity that lasts more than 30 minutes
- Red, swollen, warm joints
- Deformed, misshapen joints
RA may also cause:
- Intense fatigue, decreased energy
- Muscle aches
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Fever and sweats
- Insomnia
- Small lumps or nodules under the skin
Inflammation may also occur in:
- Eyes
- Mouth
- Skin
- Lungs
- Blood and blood vessels
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. There are many diseases that can mimic RA. Tests will help to rule out other conditions.
Tests may include:
-
Blood tests to look for:
- Rheumatoid factor—can be found in conditions other than RA
- Signs of an autoimmune disorder or inflammation
- Imaging tests:
-
Tissue sample such as:
- Synovial biopsy—a piece of the lining of the joint
- Arthrocentesis —fluid from the joint
The doctor will look at all your symptoms and test results to reach a diagnosis.
Treatment
There is no cure for RA. The goal of treatment is to slow down the damage to the joint. It can also help:
- Relieve pain
- Reduce inflammation
- Help you move better
Medicine
There are a variety of medicines to treat the pain and inflammation of RA. One or more of the following type of medicine may be recommended:
-
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)—such as ibuprofen, cyclooxgenase-2, or COX-2 inhibitors
- May be applied to the skin or taken by mouth.
-
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs):
- Nonbiologics—suppress the immune system
- Biologics—attempt to repair, stimulate, or enhance the immune system
- Corticosteroids—injected into the joint (less common)
Rest and Exercise
Rest can reduce joint inflammation and pain. It can also fight fatigue.
Exercise is important for maintaining muscle strength and flexibility. It also preserves joint motion.
- Try mild strength training.
- Participate in aerobic exercise. This include walking, swimming, or dancing.
- Avoid heavy-impact exercise.
- Try a physical therapy program.
Maintain a balance between rest and exercise.
Joint Care
Splints may help to reduce pain. Stress on joints from daily activities may be reduced with:
- Zipper extenders
- Long-handled shoehorns
- Specially designed kitchen tools
Stress Reduction
Chronic pain can be very stressful. Stress can also increase the sensation of pain and its impact on day to day life. Options to help can include:
- Mindfulness or meditation to lower stress
- Spa therapy
- Joining a support group
- Cognitive behavioral therapy —helps you manage how you deal with RA
Surgery
Surgery may be needed if there is severe damage or loss of function. Option include:
- Replacing a joint—arthroplasty
- Tendon reconstruction
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM
- Review Date: 05/2018 -
- Update Date: 05/13/2016 -