Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling in affected joints.
Sometimes, small, painless lumps may develop around affected joints, and there may also be general symptoms, such as tiredness, fever, and weight loss.
Symptoms may flare up, then diminish before flaring up again. In some cases, other body tissues may also be affected, such as the lungs, heart, eyes, or blood vessels.
Treatment typically involves disease- modifying antirheumatic drugs or other medications to slow progress of the disease; pain relievers; corticosteroids to reduce inflammation; and physical therapy. Surgery to remove damaged joint tissue or replace an affected joint may also be recommended.