Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA, rheumatism, former name: chronically progressive rheumatism) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects joints and various organs. The most characteristic symptom is pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints of the hands and feet, but inflammation can also affect other joints. Untreated disease usually leads to joint damage and severe disability, as well as damage to many organs and premature death. Early application of effective treatment inhibits disease progression, prevents its complications and allows normal functioning.