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Rheumatoid Arthritis: Understanding a Complex Autoimmune Condition
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, impacting daily routines, mobility, and overall quality of life. Unlike ordinary wear-and-tear arthritis, RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, especially the joints. This immune-driven inflammation can lead to long-term joint damage, pain, and functional limitations if not managed early and effectively.
At its core, RA is an inflammatory condition. The immune system, designed to protect against infections, becomes overactive and targets the synovial lining — the thin membrane surrounding the joints. This results in swelling, warmth, stiffness, and tenderness, often starting in the small joints of the hands and feet. One of the defining features of RA is its symmetrical pattern; if one hand or knee is swollen, the same joint on the other side is likely affected. Morning stiffness lasting longer than…