Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What causes rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. The exact trigger is not known but it is likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Once triggered the immune system attacks the lining of joints, known as the synovium. This, in turn, leads to a series of events resulting in damage of the underlying bone and cartilage. The inflammation can also affect the skin, kidneys, lungs, heart and blood vessels, and other parts of the body.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation of joints, resulting in joint damage and loss of joint mobility.

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis appear gradually. They include pain, swelling, stiffness and deformity of the joints. The skin overlying an affected joint can look red. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint; it usually affects joints …

What happens if I have rheumatoid arthritis and am pregnant?

If you have rheumatoid arthritis and are pregnant, or planning to get pregnant, it is very important that you speak to your doctor, as many medications for rheumatoid arthritis can have a negative impact on your baby. You may be …

Who gets rheumatoid arthritis?

The risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis include: Gender - women are three times more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis; Genetics - people with specific variants of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes are more likely to develop rheumatoid …

How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?

A diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is based upon identification of clinical features, such as swelling of three or more joints for six or more weeks, swelling of the same joints on both sides of the body, and appearance of rheumatoid nodules. …

How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?

A range of treatment options are available for rheumatoid arthritis, including: medicines to reduce inflammation, such as disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic medicines and corticosteroids; pain-relief medications, such as …

Can rheumatoid arthritis be cured?

There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. Progression of rheumatoid arthritis varies from one person to another. It can steadily worsen or may sometimes go into remission. Treatment from the early stages can reduce symptoms and the damage caused to …

Will rheumatoid arthritis clear on its own?

It is very rare for rheumatoid arthritis to stop (go into remission) without treatment.

Can rheumatoid arthritis be prevented?

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent rheumatoid arthritis, but you can reduce your risk by not smoking. Treatment also slows down the progression of disease by minimizing inflammation that causes damage.

What is the outcome for rheumatoid arthritis?

Progression of rheumatoid arthritis varies between people. It can steadily worsen or may sometimes go into remission. Symptoms tend to fluctuate. Treatment during the early stages can reduce symptoms and the damage caused to joints. Remission …

What increases the chances of developing rheumatoid arthritis?

The risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis include: Gender - women are three times more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis; Genetics - people with specific variants of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes are …

What can make rheumatoid arthritis worse?

Not receiving treatment for rheumatoid arthritis causes the disease to progress and worsen over time.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis affects the cartilage in synovial joints, usually in the hands, big toes, knees, hips and spine. As cartilage breaks down, bones in the joints rub against one another, causing pain, stiffness, swelling and bony spurs. Treatment options are available to help manage symptoms.…
Diseases & conditions

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis occurs in people with psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that can affect the skin, nails and joints. In psoriatic arthritis, one or more joints become stiff, swollen and painful. Early treatment makes living with the condition much easier.…
Diseases & conditions

Gout

Gout is an acutely painful condition that usually affects the big toe. It occurs when uric acid crystals form in certain joints, leading to inflammation, pain and swelling. Medications and changes in behaviour can reduce the likelihood of future gout episodes.…
Diseases & conditions

Arthritis

Arthritis refers to inflammation of joints. This can lead to stiffness, swelling and pain and may be due to a joint condition, an infection or an autoimmune condition. Most arthritis is chronic, however adhering to treatment plans and some modification of activities can help maintain an active lifestyle.…
Diseases & conditions

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect many parts of the body. It can cause a distinct rash on the face, tiredness and swollen lymph glands. With lifestyle changes and medications, most symptoms can be managed.…
Diseases & conditions

Arthritis in children (juvenile arthritis)

Arthritis is inflammation of the joints, leading to pain and difficulty moving the joint. There are many different types of arthritis that can affect children. These conditions may also be called juvenile arthritis.…

About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 26 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Votes: 1048 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Osteoarthritis

×

Content goes in here.