Define reumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can also affect other parts of the body, such as the skin, eyes, lungs, and heart. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint damage and deformity. It is characterized by periods of flare-ups and remission, and the exact cause is unknown. Treatment typically involves medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints. It is characterized by the following:

Inflammatory Response:
- Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, typically worse in the mornings or after periods of rest
- Inflammation of synovium, the lining of the joints

Symmetric Involvement:
- Symptoms typically affect both sides of the body, such as both wrists or knees

Joint Damage and Deformity:
- Prolonged inflammation can lead to erosion of cartilage and bone, resulting in joint damage, deformity, and loss of mobility

Extra-articular Manifestations:
- RA can also affect other organs and systems beyond the joints, such as:
- Skin: Nodules under the skin (rheumatoid nodules)
- Eyes: Dryness and inflammation (Sjogren's syndrome)
- Lungs: Inflammation and scarring (interstitial lung disease)
- Heart: Inflammation of the lining of the heart (pericarditis)

Autoimmune Nature:
- RA is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the body's own tissues, resulting in inflammation and damage to the joints.
- The body produces antibodies (rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies) that target the body's own immune cells.

Other Characteristics:
- Fatigue and low energy
- Weight loss
- Anemia
- Morning stiffness lasting for at least 30 minutes