CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) RESOURCE CENTER Read More
Add To Favorites

Rheumatoid arthritis can become devastating

Topeka Capital Journal (KS) - 11/24/2014

Dear Doctor K: I have rheumatoid arthritis. Can you explain what is happening in my body to cause such uncomfortable symptoms?

Dear Reader: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease. It causes painful and sometimes disabling inflammation of the joints. RA can also affect other tissues in the body, such as the skin, eyes, lungs and blood vessels.

In RA, the immune system targets synovial joints, the movable joints found in the shoulders, elbows, wrists, fingers, hips, knees, ankles and toes. In these joints, a protective layer of cartilage covers the ends of the bones where they meet. The joints take their name from the synovium, a membrane that lines the joint.

The synovium produces synovial fluid, a thick, sticky, yellowish liquid. It lubricates the joint and minimizes friction. It also forms a seal that allows neighboring bones to slide freely against each other without pulling apart. RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium. The attacking cells release inflammatory chemicals that increase blood flow to the site. They direct an army of white blood cells, germ-fighters and other substances into the invaded tissue.

In a normal immune system response, inflammation subsides when the threat is removed. But in RA, the immune response continues indefinitely. This prolonged inflammation can be devastating. Ultimately, the joints can be so badly damaged that they become deformed. People with RA can have great difficulty walking, bending, lifting or using their hands.

Nationwide News