Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes and Symptoms Explored

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's joints, leading to inflammation. This results in thickening of the synovium, pain, and eventually cartilage deterioration, reducing joint space and mobility. Commonly affected areas include the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. Since RA can also impact internal organs like the lungs and heart, it is classified as a systemic disease.

While the exact cause remains unclear, experts know that genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors contribute. A particular gene marker called HLA increases susceptibility, along with other genes such as STAT4, TRAF1, C5, and PTPN22, which influence immune regulation and inflammation.

No one fully understands why the immune system malfunctions and attacks joints, but genetic predisposition, hormones, and environmental factors play roles. Not all individuals with risk genes develop RA, and some without these genes can still be affected. Early RA may only present as joint tenderness and pain without swelling. Symptoms include persistent joint pain, stiffness especially in the morning, fatigue, appetite loss, and low-grade fever. Flare-ups can last days or months, signaling increased disease activity.

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