Rheumatoid Arthritis is a disease that affects not only joints, but may also affect the heart, lungs, and eyes. Inflammation from this disease is very painful. Flare-ups are frequent and long lasting. The initial area of attack is the membrane that lines the joint. Cartilage is the joint's cushion that covers the ends of bones allowing free movement. Over time, it breaks down cartilage as well as the ligaments, muscles, and bones.

Rheumatoid arthritis causes overall stiffness and aching. It tends to affect more than one joint. Smaller joints such as the wrists, hands, feet, or ankles are the most common sites for this condition. The hips, knees, or elbows may also suffer. Many joints can be affected at the same time. It is common to have the disease in both feet or both hands at the same time.

Primary symptoms include swelling and pain in the smaller joints of the hands and feet. Overall aching or stiffness occurs, especially after sleeping or lack of use. The affected joints are swollen, painful, and warm to touch during flare-ups. Another symptom is a series of small lumps that range in size from a pea to a walnut. These may develop under the skin near the elbow, the ears or nose, the back of the scalp, over the knee, or under the toes. The lumps are usually not painful or threatening to health.

Rheumatoid arthritis can be a chronic problem that results in progressive joint destruction, deformity, and disability. The disease can occur at any age. It is more likely to develop between ages 20 and 50 years. Women are affected three times more often than men.

Treatment focuses on relieving pain and improving joint function. A wide range of drugs and procedures are available. This includes a balance of rest and exercise. Exercise is regular, gentle, and progressive. It may include physical therapy and swimming. Surgery can be used to prevent or repair damage.

To learn more about arthritis, call the Arthritis Foundation at (800) 283-7800.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go