Final answer:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder affecting joints, causing pain and stiffness primarily in the hands, wrists, and feet, predominantly in women aged 40-50. Diagnosis is made through symptoms, imaging, and blood tests, with treatments focused on alleviating symptoms since there is no cure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Its Impact
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that significantly affects the function and comfort of the joints. It is more common in individuals between the ages of 40-50, and symptoms such as bilateral symmetrical pain, swelling, and stiffness are typically present in the small joints of the hands, wrists, and feet. RA is an autoimmune disease where the immune system erroneously attacks healthy tissues, particularly the synovium, causing joint inflammation and cartilage breakdown. This breakdown leads to bones rubbing against each other, resulting in pain. The condition is known to be more prevalent in women, particularly those who are post-menopausal or have declining estrogen levels, indicating a possible hormonal link. Although the exact cause of RA is unknown, potential environmental and genetic factors are being researched, including the possibility of an X-linked genetic factor.
Rheumatologists diagnose RA using a combination of patient symptoms, imaging tests such as X-ray, MRI, or arthrography, and blood tests measuring rheumatoid factor (RF), anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP), C-reactive protein (CRP), and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Treatments aim at alleviating symptoms and may include exercise, pain management with anti-inflammatory medications, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and in some cases, surgery. Although there is no known cure for RA, ongoing treatment and management strategies can improve quality of life for those affected by this condition.