Information On Rheumatoid Arthritis [2026 Update]

is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by persistent inflammation of the joint lining, or synovium. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by mechanical "wear and tear," RA occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. Core Characteristics

: It is a long-term condition that alternates between periods of increased disease activity ( flares ) and periods of relative calm ( remission ). Key Symptoms information on rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Symptoms, Stages & Treatment - Cleveland Clinic is a chronic, systemic autoimmune disease characterized by

: A distinguishing feature of RA is that it typically affects joints symmetrically (e.g., if the left wrist is inflamed, the right wrist usually is too). Key Symptoms Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Symptoms, Stages &

Symptoms often begin in smaller joints, such as the fingers and toes, before progressing to larger joints like the wrists, knees, and ankles.