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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues -- specifically, the tissues around the joints. The majority of patients are women, and onset typically is between ages 30 and 50.

The earlier RA is diagnosed and treatment started, the better the outcome, with less likelihood for the joints to become irreversibly damaged, which can lead to serious disability.

What are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Often the first physical sign of RA is swelling, tenderness, or morning stiffness in one of the small joints, such as in the hands or feet. Swelling of the large joints, such as the knee, typically is caused by osteoarthritis, which is a very different disorder.

What are the Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

While the precise cause of RA is not known, there are likely to be multiple factors involved. There clearly is a role for genetics, so if you have a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has the disease, your risk is increased.

Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Be Prevented?

The most important thing you can do to prevent RA is avoid tobacco smoking, which has been strongly implicated in the development of the disease. A recent study found that even passive smoking in childhood significantly increased the risk for RA later in life.

Is There a Cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Although there is as yet no cure for RA, there are many treatment options. Some are oral medications and others require injections or infusions. Your healthcare provider can discuss these options with you, and advise you on a suitable medication regimen that can be adjusted according to your response.

Lifestyle modifications in addition to quitting smoking, such as diet, exercise, maintaining good sleep hygiene, and stress modification are also important since these are tied to both general and immune health and can reduce inflammation and the risk for RA complications such as heart disease.

MedPage Today's "Medical Journeys" is a set of clinical resources reviewed by doctors, meant for physicians and other healthcare professionals as well as the patients they serve. Each episode of this 12-part journey through a disease state contains both a physician guide and a downloadable/printable patient resource. "Medical Journeys" chart a path each step of the way for physicians and patients and provide continual resources and support, as the caregiver team navigates the course of a disease.