Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common autoimmune type of arthritis. In RA, your body’s immune system begins to react against its own tissues, causing significant inflammation in your joints and various other organs. This can cause joint pain, stiffness, swelling and decreased flexibility of the joints. RA often strikes small joints in your wrists, hands and feet but can also affect larger joints and other organs such as the eyes and lungs. 

About 75% of RA patients are women. Symptoms usually start between ages 30 and 50 but can happen to people at any age. RA is a chronic condition and there is no cure currently, however there are many ways to treat and manage symptoms. Early diagnosis and the right treatments can ease symptoms and prevent joint damage or disability.

The information in the diseases and conditions fact sheets is for general education only. Please consult your rheumatologist for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment of your unique medical condition. To learn more about RA and up to date guidance, please visit American College of Rheumatology from the following link.