As we approach the winter season, some individuals may experience subtle joint discomfort as the weather changes. It's crucial not to dismiss these symptoms lightly, as they may indicate more than just joint strain, degeneration, or injury. They could be a result of an issue with the body's immune system, leading to rheumatoid arthritis. Untreated and uncontrolled inflammation can lead to joint deformity and even increase the risk of heart disease and stroke in the long term.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a common rheumatic condition characterized by the body's immune system mistakenly attacking healthy cells, resulting in inflammation of the joint tissues. In Hong Kong, there are currently approximately 22,000 individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The precise causes of rheumatoid arthritis have yet to be definitively established by the medical community. However, the following factors are believed to increase the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis:

Age: The condition can occur at any age, but the onset is typically between 30 and 50 years old, with an increased likelihood as one grows older.

Gender: Females are more susceptible to the disease compared to males.

Genetics/Inherited Traits: Having a family history of the condition or possessing HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) Class II genes can predispose individuals to rheumatoid arthritis.

Smoking: Smoking has been linked to a higher risk of developing the disease and exacerbating its symptoms.

Obesity: Being overweight increases the likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis, and it also makes managing the condition more challenging.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis often experience systemic stiffness, with at least one hour of joint immobility each day. Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:

- Joint pain, tenderness, swelling, and warmth during rest and movement

- Joint stiffness lasting over 30 minutes

- Persistent feelings of fatigue or lack of energy

- Occasional low-grade fever

- Loss of appetite

- Symmetrical inflammation and pain in the joints, where both sides of the body are affected simultaneously

- Joint deformity and limited range of motion

Severe cases of the condition can lead to various systemic complications such as dry eyes, myocarditis, heart disease, pulmonary fibrosis, and vasculitis.

Treatment Approaches for Rheumatoid Arthritis

While there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, early detection and appropriate treatment can effectively slow down joint damage and enable patients to lead a normal life. Medical professionals often employ medication-based therapies, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), COX-2 inhibitors, steroids, and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Biologic therapies have emerged as a breakthrough in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. These medications target the body's immune system, effectively controlling the inflammatory process and reducing symptoms with minimal side effects. Patients can also take control of their condition by incorporating physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications into their treatment plan.

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in stabilizing rheumatoid arthritis. Prompt treatment can potentially reduce medication doses or even lead to discontinuation. If symptoms suggestive of rheumatoid arthritis are noticed, seeking immediate medical attention is highly recommended.

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