2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Immune System’s Attack
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is primarily caused by wear and tear, RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
The exact cause of RA is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain genes may increase an individual’s susceptibility to developing RA, while environmental factors such as smoking, infections, and hormonal changes may trigger the onset of the disease.
Treatment for RA often involves medications to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, as well as lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a healthy diet. In some cases, more aggressive treatments like disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologic medications may be necessary to slow the progression of the disease and prevent joint damage. (2)
