Osmosis video - Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disorder of autoimmune origin that is primarily characterized by progressive, symmetric joint destruction, especially in the wrists and fingers, but may also affect other joints and many organs, such as the skin, heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Symptoms of RA include fatigue, joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, which can lead to decreased range of motion and joint deformity. RA is a chronic condition and treatment is focused on managing symptoms and preventing further joint damage. Treatment options include medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic agents, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.