Rheumatoid arthritis, often called RA, is a long-term autoimmune condition that mainly causes inflammation in the joints.
An autoimmune condition develops when the immune system, which normally protects the body from infection, mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. In rheumatoid arthritis, this leads to inflammation in the lining of the joints.
Over time, uncontrolled inflammation may damage the cartilage, bone and surrounding structures of the joint. Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, which is why early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important.
What Are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Symptoms vary from person to person and may develop gradually or appear over a shorter period.
Common symptoms include:
• Painful, swollen or warm joints
• Joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after resting
• Morning stiffness that lasts longer than 30 minutes
• Symptoms affecting both sides of the body, such as both hands or both feet
• Difficulty moving or using the affected joints
• Tiredness or low energy
• A general feeling of being unwell
• Reduced appetite or unintentional weight loss
Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the small joints of the hands, wrists and feet, although other joints may also be involved.
Symptoms may sometimes improve and then become worse again. A period when the disease becomes more active is often called a flare.
Is Rheumatoid Arthritis the Same as Osteoarthritis?
No. Although both conditions can cause joint pain and stiffness, they develop for different reasons.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory autoimmune disease. Osteoarthritis is mainly associated with changes in the cartilage and other structures within a joint over time.
Rheumatoid arthritis often causes prolonged morning stiffness, visible joint swelling and symptoms involving several joints. However, symptoms may overlap, and a proper medical assessment is needed to determine the cause of joint pain.
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not fully understood.
It is thought to develop through a combination of genetic, hormonal and environmental factors. Smoking is one recognised factor that can increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis and may contribute to more severe disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis is not caused by ordinary use of the joints, and it is not contagious.
How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
There is no single test that can diagnose rheumatoid arthritis on its own.
Your rheumatologist will consider several factors, including:
• Your symptoms and how long they have been present
• Which joints are affected
• Whether there is swelling, tenderness or reduced movement
• Blood tests that look for inflammation and certain antibodies
• Imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound scans
Blood tests may include rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies. Some people with rheumatoid arthritis do not have these antibodies, while some people without rheumatoid arthritis may have a positive rheumatoid factor.
For this reason, blood-test results must always be considered together with your symptoms and examination findings.
How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated?
There is currently no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but effective treatment can control inflammation, relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of permanent joint damage.
Treatment is tailored to each patient and may include:
• Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, known as DMARDs
• Biologic and targeted therapies, where appropriate
• Short-term treatment to relieve pain and inflammation
• Exercise and physiotherapy
• Occupational therapy and joint-protection advice
• Support with healthy lifestyle habits
• Regular blood tests and follow-up appointments
DMARDs do more than relieve pain. They help control the underlying disease and reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Your rheumatologist will monitor how well the treatment is working and may adjust it until the disease is adequately controlled.
Why Is Early Treatment Important?
Joint damage from rheumatoid arthritis can begin early in the disease.
Starting appropriate treatment as soon as possible can:
• Reduce pain, swelling and stiffness
• Protect the joints from permanent damage
• Preserve movement and physical function
• Reduce the likelihood of disability
• Improve long-term health and quality of life
You should seek medical advice if you have persistent joint swelling, prolonged morning stiffness or pain affecting several joints.
Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect Other Parts of the Body?
Rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the joints, but it is a systemic condition, meaning that it can sometimes affect other parts of the body.
Possible areas of involvement include:
• The eyes
• The lungs
• The skin
• The heart and blood vessels
• The nerves
Not every person with rheumatoid arthritis will develop these complications. Regular medical care helps identify and manage concerns early.
Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Many people with rheumatoid arthritis continue to lead active and fulfilling lives.
In addition to taking prescribed medication, it may help to:
• Remain physically active with suitable exercise
• Avoid smoking
• Maintain a healthy and balanced diet
• Balance activity with appropriate rest
• Protect the joints during everyday activities
• Attend scheduled follow-up appointments
• Complete blood tests and other monitoring as advised
• Discuss medication concerns before stopping treatment
Do not stop or change rheumatoid arthritis medication without speaking to your healthcare professional. Stopping treatment may allow inflammation to return, even when you are feeling well.
When Should You Contact Your Healthcare Team?
Contact your healthcare team if:
• Your joint pain or swelling becomes significantly worse
• You develop a new or persistent symptom
• You think you may be experiencing a medication side effect
• You develop signs of infection while taking immune-modifying medication
• You are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding
• You are unsure how to take your medication
• Your symptoms are interfering with everyday activities
Early communication allows your treatment plan to be reviewed and adjusted when necessary.
This information is intended for general education and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice about your specific symptoms or condition.