Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Chronic Autoimmune Condition
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a long-term autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. Unlike common joint problems that occur due to aging or physical strain, rheumatoid arthritis develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissues. This immune response leads to inflammation that can progressively damage cartilage, bones, and surrounding structures if left unmanaged.
One of the defining characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis is its symmetrical nature. This means that if one joint is affected, the same joint on the opposite side of the body is often impacted as well. Commonly affected areas include the hands, wrists, knees, ankles, and feet. People with RA often experience morning stiffness lasting more than an hour, which can make routine activities such as gripping objects or walking difficult.
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not fully understood, but…