Rheumatoid Arthritis

Welcome to the Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group. Our dedicated Rheumatology team is committed to providing expert care and innovative treatments for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We understand the impact RA can have on your daily life, and our goal is to help you manage your symptoms effectively and improve your overall quality of life through personalized treatment plans.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and swelling. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is due to wear and tear, RA is driven by an immune system malfunction. This condition can affect multiple joints and may also involve other organs, leading to a wide range of symptoms and complications.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and swelling. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is due to wear and tear, RA is driven by an immune system malfunction. This condition can affect multiple joints and may also involve other organs, leading to a wide range of symptoms and complications.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Joint Pain and Swelling: Persistent pain and swelling, particularly in the hands, wrists, and knees.
• Morning Stiffness: Stiffness lasting more than an hour after waking up.
• Fatigue: A general sense of tiredness or exhaustion.
• Symmetrical Joint Involvement: Joints on both sides of the body are often affected equally.
• Joint Deformities: Over time, RA can cause joint deformities and functional impairments.

Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis involves several key steps:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: A detailed assessment of symptoms and a physical exam to check for joint swelling, pain, and range of motion.
• Blood Tests: Tests to detect rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA), and inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
• Imaging Studies: X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans to evaluate joint damage and inflammation.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.

• Genetic Factors: Certain genes increase the risk of developing RA by influencing immune system activity. A family history of the disease can increase susceptibility.
• Immune System Dysfunction: RA is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium (the lining of the joints), leading to inflammation and joint damage.
• Hormonal influence: RA is more common in women, suggesting that hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy or menopause, may play a role.
• Environmental triggers: Factors such as infections, smoking, and exposure to pollutants may trigger or worsen RA in genetically predisposed individuals.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatments

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments to manage rheumatoid arthritis:

Medications:

• Conventional Disease-Modifying Anti-rheumatic Drugs (cDMARDs): These are typically the first-line treatments for RA. Common cDMARDs include methotrexate, leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine, and sulfasalazine.
• Biologic DMARDs: Biologic drugs are prescribed when cDMARDs alone do not adequately control RA inflammation.
• Corticosteroids: Used for short-term symptom relief and to reduce severe inflammation.
• Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Physical Therapy: Customized exercise programs to maintain joint function, reduce stiffness, and improve mobility.

Surgery: In advanced cases, surgical options such as joint replacement or synovectomy may be recommended to restore function and alleviate pain.

Long term Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis 

Managing rheumatoid arthritis effectively involves a combination of treatments and lifestyle adjustments:

• Rehabilitation: Regular physical therapy and rehabilitation to improve joint function and mobility.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques to support overall health.
• Follow-Up Care: Ongoing follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
• Patient Education: Providing resources and support to help you understand RA and manage your condition effectively.

Last update date: 07-08-2024

Written by

Dr. Nathalie E. Chalhoub +

Consultant Rheumatologist

Dr. Nathalie E. Chalhoub is an American Board-Certified Consultant Rheumatologist who has worked in the USA, UAE and Lebanon.