Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an auto immune disease, which means the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue leading to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. RA affects other organs also and is more common in middle aged women. The classic symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are morning stiffness and swelling o the joints (especially hand joints) and it usually affects the same joint of both sides of the body. Rheumatoid arthritis can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac); Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs – DMARDs (Methotrexate, Sulfasalazine); Corticosteroids and biological therapies. Surgery is indicated in the late stages.