What is rheumatoid arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that is chronic (ongoing). It occurs in the joints on both sides of your body, which makes it different from other types of arthritis. You may have symptoms of pain and inflammation in your: Fingers. Hands. Wrists Knees Ankles. Feet. Toes. Uncontrolled inflammation damages cartilage, which normally acts as a “shock absorber” in your joints. In time, this can deform your joints. Eventually, your bone itself erodes. This can lead to the fusion of your joint (an effort of your body to protect itself from constant irritation). Specific cells in your immune system (your body’s infection-fighting system) aid this process. These substances are produced in your joints but also circulate and cause symptoms throughout your body. In addition to affecting your joints, rheumatoid arthritis sometimes affects other parts of your body, including your: Skin. Eyes. Mouth. Lungs. Heart. What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis affects everyone differently. In some people, joint symptoms develop over several years. In other people, rheumatoid arthritis symptoms progress rapidly. Many people have time with symptoms (flares) and then time with no symptoms (remission). Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include: Pain, swelling, stiffness and tenderness in more than one joint. Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for long periods. Pain and stiffness in the same joints on both sides of your body. Fatigue (extreme tiredness). Weakness. Fever. We ASP Healthcare is one of the best physiotherapy and rehabilitation centre in chennai. #www.asphealthcare.in #handpain #wristpain #rehabcentre #bestphysio #bestchiropractic #bestacupuncture #osteopathic #ambattur #avadi #thirumullaivoyal #mugppair #annanagar #kallikuppam #9941424372 #8072603014