Arthritis is inflammation of a joint or joints and the surrounding tissues including tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Its effects can range from minimal pain, stiffness, and joint swelling to deformity of the joints, crippling and total disability. The three most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. By the time we reach 50 years of age, 80% of us will develop osteoarthritis.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes pain, stiffness, swelling and loss of function in the joints and inflammation in other body organs. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks normal tissue components as if they were invading pathogens. This illness affects about one percent of the world's population. The inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis primarily attacks the linings of the joints. However, the membranes lining the blood vessels, heart, and lungs may also become inflamed. The hands and feet are most often affected, but any joint lined by a membrane may be involved. The inflammation can be controlled by medication. If the inflammation is not controlled the joints may become deformed.

Rheumatoid arthritis usually manifests itself over a period of a few months. However for some, the disease may appear over night. Rapid onset does not mean the individual is at greater risk of disease progression.

Rheumatiod Arthritis may have different affects on different people. Some individuals may experience extreme pain while others may not. Patients often suffer cycles of severe and light symptoms.