Overview
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's defences attack the joints, causing pain, swelling and morning stiffness — typically in the small joints of both hands and feet. Unlike ordinary wear-and-tear arthritis, it can damage joints permanently if untreated, so early specialist treatment matters.
Symptoms
- Pain and swelling in the same joints on both sides
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Swollen, tender knuckles and wrists
- Fatigue and general unwellness
- Low-grade fever
- Firm lumps (nodules) near elbows
- Gradual joint deformity if untreated
Causes & risk factors
- Autoimmune attack on the joint lining (exact trigger unknown)
- Genetic predisposition
- Smoking increases risk and severity
- More common in women
Treatment & self-care
Treatment uses disease-modifying medicines prescribed and monitored by a physician or rheumatologist to suppress the immune attack and protect the joints, alongside short-term anti-inflammatory relief. Physiotherapy keeps joints mobile and strong. Starting treatment early — within months of symptoms — is what prevents deformity.
See a doctor urgently if
- Joint pain and swelling in both hands lasting over six weeks
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes daily
- Joint symptoms with fever or weight loss
- Existing RA that flares despite treatment