Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Treatment for autoimmune joint inflammation and pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation that can progressively damage cartilage and bone if left untreated. Unlike osteoarthritis, it typically affects joints symmetrically on both sides of the body, and early treatment with appropriate medication significantly changes the long-term outcome.
Types
Seropositive Rheumatoid Arthritis
The more common form, where specific antibodies associated with the condition are detectable in the blood.
Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis
A form where typical antibodies are not detected despite a clinical picture consistent with rheumatoid arthritis.
Early Rheumatoid Arthritis
Recently diagnosed disease, where prompt treatment has the greatest impact on long-term joint preservation.
Established Rheumatoid Arthritis with Joint Damage
Longer-standing disease where some joint damage has already occurred, requiring both disease control and management of existing damage.
Common Causes
The exact trigger for rheumatoid arthritis is not fully understood, though it involves the immune system attacking the joint lining, with certain factors known to increase risk.
- Genetic predisposition - certain genetic markers are linked to a higher risk of developing the condition.
- Smoking - one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Environmental triggers - certain infections or environmental exposures may trigger onset in genetically susceptible individuals.
- Hormonal factors - the condition is more common in women, suggesting a hormonal influence.
- Family history of rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions.
Signs and Symptoms
- Joint pain and swelling, typically affecting the same joints on both sides of the body
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, often much longer
- Fatigue, sometimes significant, alongside joint symptoms
- Warmth and tenderness over affected joints
- Small joints of the hands and feet are commonly affected early in the disease
Diagnosis
Diagnosis combines the pattern of joint involvement with blood tests checking for rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies, along with inflammatory markers. X-rays or ultrasound may be used to assess for early joint damage, which can appear before symptoms become severe.
Treatment Approach
Modern treatment centres on disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), which target the underlying immune activity rather than just relieving symptoms, and starting these early has been shown to significantly improve long-term joint outcomes. Physiotherapy and joint protection strategies support medical treatment, and orthopaedic input becomes important if joint damage has already progressed to the point of affecting function. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna coordinates the orthopaedic aspects of care alongside rheumatology management of the underlying disease.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
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Last reviewed: August 2026