ChamberRheumatoid Arthritis (RA) · রিউমাটয়েড আর্থ্রাইটিস (বাত)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness, usually on both sides of the body. Early diagnosis and treatment can control the disease and protect the joints from lasting damage.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints (the synovium), causing inflammation. Over time this can damage cartilage and bone and lead to joint deformity. RA can also affect other parts of the body such as the eyes, lungs and heart. It is different from the common 'wear and tear' osteoarthritis.
Symptoms
RA symptoms often develop gradually and may include:
- Pain, swelling and warmth in joints, often the hands, wrists and feet
- Stiffness that is worse in the morning and lasts more than 30 minutes
- Symptoms usually affecting the same joints on both sides of the body
- Tiredness, a general feeling of being unwell, and sometimes a mild fever
Causes and risk factors
RA is an autoimmune condition whose exact cause is unknown. A mix of genetic, hormonal and environmental factors is involved. Smoking, a family history of RA, and being female increase the risk. It can begin at any age but often starts in middle adulthood.
Diagnosis
A rheumatologist diagnoses RA from the pattern of joint symptoms, a physical examination, blood tests (such as inflammation markers, rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP) and imaging like X-rays or ultrasound. Early diagnosis matters because prompt treatment protects the joints.
Treatment
There is no cure, but modern treatment can control RA well. Doctors use disease-modifying medicines (DMARDs) and sometimes biologics to slow the disease, along with anti-inflammatory medicines for symptoms. Physiotherapy, gentle exercise and, rarely, surgery for damaged joints also help. All medicines are prescribed and monitored by a specialist.
Living with RA
Staying active within comfortable limits, protecting the joints, not smoking, eating well and keeping a healthy weight all help. Regular follow-up with a rheumatologist allows treatment to be adjusted so the disease stays under control and quality of life is maintained.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have joint pain and swelling with prolonged morning stiffness, especially affecting both sides of the body, that lasts more than a few weeks. Early referral to a rheumatologist gives the best chance of protecting your joints.
Doctors who treat Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
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Common medicines prescribed
Frequently asked questions
Is rheumatoid arthritis the same as osteoarthritis?
No. RA is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints, while osteoarthritis is mainly wear-and-tear damage. They are treated differently, so a correct diagnosis is important.
Can RA be cured?
There is no cure yet, but early and ongoing treatment can control the disease, ease symptoms and prevent joint damage. Many people with RA lead active lives with good treatment.
Does exercise help or harm RA joints?
Gentle, regular exercise usually helps by keeping joints mobile and muscles strong. During a severe flare, rest may be needed. A physiotherapist can guide safe activity for you.
Why is early treatment so important?
Joint damage from RA can be permanent. Starting disease-modifying treatment early helps prevent that damage and gives a much better long-term outcome.