It is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system of the body attacks the joints leading to chronic inflammation. It primarily affects the joints, but may also affect skin, lungs, eyes, heart and blood vessels. It causes pain, swelling and inflammation of the joints, leading to erosion and deformity of the joints and bones.

The following are the leading causes of rheumatoid arthritis: it could be hereditary, problems of the immune system and environmental causes such as bacterial or viral infections.

Commonly experienced symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are painful and swollen joints, stiffness of the joints, tiredness and fever, loss of appetite and deformity of the joints.

Yes, rheumatoid arthritis can be managed using some of the following measures: routine exercise, application of gels, lotions and creams, use of pain-relieving medicines like aspirin, relax for sufficient time, application of heat or cold packs and use a fish or plant oil supplements.

There is no permanent cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, one can incorporate the techniques to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life.