Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

What is Rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation and damage. It is characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, especially in the hands, feet, and wrists. Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, such as the eyes, heart, and lungs. The exact cause of Rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is more common in women and typically develops between the ages of 30 and 60. 

Synovial fluid, a thick, slippery liquid, normally lubricates the joints and helps them move smoothly. In people with Rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, causing it to become inflamed and thickened. This results in joint pain and stiffness and can eventually lead to joint damage and deformity.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis

Symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include: 

1. Joint pain and stiffness: This is the most common symptom. The pain and stiffness are usually worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. 
2. Swelling and tenderness: The joints affected by Rheumatoid arthritis may become swollen, tender to the touch, and warm to the touch. 
3. Fatigue: Many people with Rheumatoid arthritis experience fatigue, which can be caused by the inflammation in the body. 
4. Fever: Some people may also experience a low-grade fever. 
5. Loss of appetite: Inflammation in the body can cause a loss of appetite and weight loss. 
6. Joint deformity: As the disease progresses, the joints may become deformed, making it difficult to move them. 
7. Numbness and tingling: In some cases, it can cause numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. 
8. Eye problems: Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the eyes, causing dryness, redness, and pain. 
9. Chest pain: In severe cases, it can cause inflammation in the lining of the lungs and heart, leading to chest pain and difficulty breathing. 
10. Anemia: Some people with Rheumatoid arthritis may develop anemia, a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells.

When to see the doctor?

It is important to see the best spine and joint surgeon if you experience any of the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis, especially if they last for more than 6 weeks. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further joint damage and improve quality of life. It is also important to  see a doctor if you have a family history or other autoimmune disorders, as this may increase your risk of developing the disease.  If you have been diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to regularly follow up with your doctor and report any changes in your symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe joint pain, fever, or chest pain.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The exact cause of Rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some possible causes include:

1. Genetics: People with a family history are more likely to develop the disease. Certain genetic markers have been linked to an increased risk of Rheumatoid arthritis. 
2. Autoimmune response: The immune system mistakenly attacks  the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage. 
3. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental triggers, such as smoking or infections, may increase the risk of developing Rheumatoid arthritis in people who are genetically predisposed to the disease. 
4. Hormonal factors: Women are more likely to develop Rheumatoid arthritis than men, suggesting that hormones may play a role in the development of the disease. 
5. Age: It most commonly develops between the ages of 30 and 60, although it can  affect people of any age. 
6. Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk and can make symptoms worse.  
7. Other health conditions: People with certain other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or psoriasis, are at a higher risk.  
8. Infections: Some infections, such as viral or bacterial infections, may trigger the development of Rheumatoid arthritis in people who are genetically predisposed to the disease.

Diagnosis of Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to those of other types of arthritis. A doctor will typically perform a physical exam, review the patient’s medical history, and order certain tests to make a diagnosis. These tests may include:

1. Blood tests: These can detect the presence of certain antibodies and markers that are associated with it, such as rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies. 
2. Imaging tests: X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI scans can help detect joint damage and inflammation associated with it. 
3. Joint fluid analysis: A sample of fluid taken from an inflamed joint can be examined for signs of inflammation and infection.  
4. Physical exam: A doctor will examine the joints for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. They may also check for nodules under the skin and assess overall joint function.

Treatment of Rheumatoid arthritis

There is no cure, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options may include:

1. Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation, slow down joint damage, and improve overall function. 
2. Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches prescribed by a physical therapist can help improve joint flexibility, strength, and range of motion. 
3. Lifestyle changes: Making changes to diet and exercise habits can help manage symptoms and improve overall  health. 
4. Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be recommended to replace damaged joints and improve mobility and function.  
5. Alternative therapies: Some people find relief through acupuncture, massage, and other alternative therapies, but more research is needed to determine their effectiveness.

Types of Surgeries for Rheumatoid arthritis

1. Synovectomy: In this procedure, the inflamed lining of the joint (synovium) is removed to reduce pain and inflammation. 
2. Joint replacement: In severe cases of joint damage, a surgeon may replace the  damaged joint with an artificial one made of metal and plastic. 
3. Tendon repair: Inflammation caused by Rheumatoid arthritis can damage tendons, which connect muscles to bones. Surgery may be needed to repair or replace damaged tendons. 
4. Fusion: In this procedure, the bones of a joint are fused together to reduce pain and improve stability. This is usually done in smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet. 
5. Bone grafting: If Rheumatoid arthritis has caused  significant bone loss, a bone graft may be used to repair and strengthen the affected area. 
6. Joint resurfacing: In this procedure, the damaged surface of a joint is removed and replaced with a smooth metal or plastic surface. This can  help reduce pain and improve joint function.