Skip to main content
Mother Nature AI
AutoimmuneICD-10: M05-M06About 1.3 million adults in the US; approximately 0.5–1% of the global population

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Also known as: RA

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily attacks the synovial lining of the joints, causing painful swelling that can eventually lead to joint destruction, deformity, and disability. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA is a systemic disease that can also affect the heart, lungs, eyes, and blood vessels. Early aggressive treatment with disease-modifying drugs has revolutionized outcomes for people with RA.

Symptoms

Tender, warm, swollen joints (typically symmetric, affecting both sides)
Morning stiffness lasting more than 30–60 minutes
Joint pain and stiffness, particularly in the small joints of the hands and feet
Fatigue and general malaise
Low-grade fever
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Rheumatoid nodules (firm bumps under the skin)
Dry eyes and mouth (secondary Sjögren syndrome)

Causes

  • Autoimmune attack on synovial tissue by the immune system
  • Genetic susceptibility (HLA-DR4 and other shared epitope alleles)
  • Environmental triggers (smoking, infections, hormonal factors)
  • Citrullinated protein autoimmunity (anti-CCP antibodies)

Risk Factors

  • Female sex (2–3 times more common in women)
  • Age 30–60 at onset
  • Smoking (strongest modifiable environmental risk factor)
  • Family history of RA
  • Obesity
  • Periodontal disease (Porphyromonas gingivalis linked to citrullination)

Diagnosis

  • 2010 ACR/EULAR classification criteria
  • Blood tests: rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, CRP
  • Joint X-rays showing erosions (may be normal early in the disease)
  • Ultrasound or MRI for early detection of synovitis and erosions
  • Synovial fluid analysis if needed

Treatment

  • Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) — methotrexate is first-line
  • Biologic DMARDs: TNF inhibitors (adalimumab, etanercept), IL-6 inhibitors (tocilizumab), B-cell depletion (rituximab), T-cell costimulation blockade (abatacept)
  • JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib, baricitinib, upadacitinib)
  • Short-term low-dose corticosteroids for flare management
  • NSAIDs for symptom relief
  • Physical and occupational therapy to maintain joint function

Prevention

  • No known prevention for RA, but risk can be reduced by:
  • Not smoking (smoking cessation reduces risk of developing RA)
  • Maintaining good oral health
  • Early treatment prevents joint damage (treat-to-target strategy)

When to See a Doctor

  • Persistent joint pain and swelling lasting more than 6 weeks
  • Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes
  • Symmetric joint involvement (same joints on both sides of the body)
  • Joint symptoms accompanied by fatigue, fever, or weight loss

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Osteoarthritis

Musculoskeletal

Lupus

Autoimmune

Psoriasis

Dermatological

Gout

Musculoskeletal

Related from the Supplement Library

Turmeric

Strong

Herb · Reduces systemic inflammation (NF-κB pathway)

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

Boswellia

Moderate

Herb · Anti-inflammatory (5-LOX inhibition)

Vitamin D

Strong

Vitamin · Bone health and calcium absorption

Probiotics (Lactobacillus)

Strong

Probiotic · Gut microbiome balance and diversity

These supplements have been studied in relation to Rheumatoid Arthritis. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

Have questions about Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Ask Mother Nature AI for personalized, evidence-based guidance.

Ask about Rheumatoid Arthritis

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.