When we think of arthritis, we usually picture osteoarthritis—the general 'wear and tear' of joints that happens as we age. But there is a much more aggressive form of joint disease that can strike people in their 30s and 40s: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
\n\nThe Autoimmune Attack
\n\nRheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Your immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium—the lining of the membranes that surround your joints. This creates intense inflammation, causing the synovium to thicken. Eventually, this can destroy the cartilage and bone within the joint, leading to permanent deformity.
\n\nTelltale Signs of RA
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- Symmetry: RA usually affects joints on both sides of the body (e.g., both wrists or both knees). \n
- Morning Stiffness: Severe joint stiffness that lasts for more than an hour after waking up. \n
- Swollen, tender, and warm joints. \n
- Systemic symptoms: Fatigue, low-grade fever, and weight loss. \n
The Diagnostic Blood Tests
\n\nEarly aggressive treatment is the only way to stop joint damage. To diagnose RA, doctors rely on specific blood tests:
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- Rheumatoid Factor (RF): Tests for an antibody present in about 70-80% of people with RA. \n
- Anti-CCP (Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide): A highly specific antibody test. If you have anti-CCP antibodies, it is a very strong indicator of RA, often showing up before symptoms become severe. \n
- ESR and CRP: General markers of inflammation in the body. \n
If your joints are hurting and the pain is symmetrical, don't ignore it. Book an arthritis profile with BookMyPatho today.
