What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Not to be confused with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system attacks your joints. It may also affect your organs and tissue. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis remains unknown, but genetic and environmental factors may play a role. Research has shown that smokers have a higher risk of contracting this disease.

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects your small joints such as the wrists, hands, ankles and feet. In severe cases, it may attack your larger joints, including shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. It causes pain, redness, swelling and stiffness, especially in the morning. If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can cause severe joint deformity and prevent sufferers from performing simple tasks like writing, gripping cutlery, or buttoning a shirt.