Rheumatoid Arthritis

A long-term condition where the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness, usually in the hands, wrists and feet.

AutoimmuneJointsLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Painful, swollen, stiff joints, often the same joints on both sides, with stiffness worst in the morning, plus tiredness.

Common Treatments

Disease-modifying medicines started early, painkillers and anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy and staying active.

Risk Factors

Being female, family history, smoking, being middle-aged and being overweight.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition: the immune system, which normally fights infection, attacks the lining of the joints by mistake. This causes inflammation that makes joints painful, swollen and stiff.

It usually affects small joints in the hands, wrists and feet first, often on both sides of the body. Over time, untreated inflammation can damage joints and affect other parts of the body such as the lungs, eyes and heart.

Starting treatment early helps protect the joints. Many people with RA manage it well and keep active lives.

Symptoms

Joint pain and swelling

Painful, warm, swollen joints, often in the hands, wrists and feet.

Morning stiffness

Joints are stiff in the morning or after rest, often for more than 30 minutes.

Tiredness

Many people feel very tired and generally unwell, especially during flare-ups.

Joint damage over time

Without treatment, inflammation can damage joints and change their shape.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

The immune system attacks the lining of the joints (the synovium), causing inflammation. Why this happens isn't fully understood, but genes and things such as smoking play a part.

Key Risk Factors

  • Sex Women are two to three times more likely to get RA than men.
  • Genes RA can run in families.
  • Smoking Smoking increases the risk and can make RA more severe.
  • Age It most often starts between 30 and 60, but can happen at any age.

Management & Treatment

01. Disease-modifying medicines

Medicines such as methotrexate slow the disease and protect the joints. They work best when started early.

02. Biological medicines

Used if other medicines don't control the disease well enough.

03. Pain relief

Painkillers, anti-inflammatories and sometimes short courses of steroids help with symptoms.

04. Physiotherapy and activity

Exercise, physiotherapy and occupational therapy help keep joints moving and make daily tasks easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rheumatoid arthritis the same as osteoarthritis?
No. Osteoarthritis is wear and tear of the joints. RA is caused by the immune system attacking the joints.
Will I need to take medicine for life?
Most people need long-term treatment, but the type and amount can change as the disease settles.
Should I rest or exercise?
Both. Rest during flare-ups, and regular gentle exercise the rest of the time helps keep joints healthy.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.