A chronic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation and overgrowth of the synovial tissues, most often in the extremities. The disease develops slowly, and as synovial tissues proliferate, they progressively destroy cartilage, bone, and supporting structures; eventually fusing the bones. Genetic factors are also believed to be causing the disease. It usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 40 years and is three times more common in women than in men. The disease can occur in any joint, but it typically occurs in the peripheral joints, particularly in the small bones of hands and feet and in the knee

Uncontrolled inflammation damages cartilage , which normally acts as a “shock absorber” in your joints. In time, this can deform your joints. Eventually, your bone itself erodes. This can lead to the fusion of your joint(s).

Specific cells in your immune system (your body’s infection-fighting system) aid this process. These substances are produced in your joints but also circulate and cause symptoms throughout your body. In addition to affecting your joints, rheumatoid arthritis sometimes affects other parts of your body, including your:

• Skin

• Eyes

• Mouth

• Lungs

• Heart

Four stages of rheumatoid arthritis are:

• Stage 1: In early-stage RA, there’s inflammation in the tissue around your joint(s). You may have some joint pain and stiffness. If your provider orders X-rays, they won’t see destructive changes in your bones.

• Stage 2: The inflammation has begun to damage the cartilage in your joints. You might notice stiffness and a decreased range of motion.

• Stage 3: The inflammation is so severe that it damages your bones. You’ll have more pain, stiffness and even less range of motion than in stage 2. You may start to see physical changes.

• Stage 4: In this stage, the inflammation stops but your joints keep getting worse. You’ll have severe pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of mobility.

CAUSES

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. Researchers think it’s caused by a combination of genetics, hormones and environmental factors.

Normally, your immune system protects your body from disease. With RA, something triggers your immune system to attack your own joints. An infection, smoking, or physical or emotional stress may be triggers.