Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disorder that primarily targets the joints but can also impact other systems in the body. It affects people of all ages, often developing between the ages of 30 and 60. Unlike osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear on the joints over time, RA causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the lining of the joints, leading to painful swelling, stiffness, and long-term joint damage if not properly managed.
