Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of all ages but tend to older people are at an increased risk.

In order to treat your rheumatoid arthritis, consult with one of our board-certified primary care doctors online today to discuss the best ways to get relief from rheumatoid arthritis. Get refills of existing rheumatoid arthritis prescriptions today.*
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how to save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors are not rheumatologists and cannot treat all cases of rheumatoid arthritis. They also are not qualified to be primary managers of your treatment long term. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
RA happens when your immune system attacks healthy cells in your body by mistake. According to the Arthritis Foundation, while the exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not yet known, researchers are exploring many different possible causes. Some possible risk factors include:
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of all ages but tend to older people are at an increased risk.
People born with certain genes (human leukocyte antigen gene) are more likely to develop RA. If a family member has it, you may have it too.
Weight gain increases the risk of developing RA.
Females are at higher risk than men for developing RA.
Smokers are at higher risk than the rest of the population.
Chronic pain in joints leading to limit in range of motion
Fever
Morning stiffness in joints
Swollen joints
Weakness/fatigue
The goals of medical treatment are pain relief, improve joint function, and prevent further damage to the joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other organs, such as the lungs and eyes. While there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, early diagnosis and treatment is essential to managing the condition and preventing long-term damage.
If you experience chronic joint pain or swelling, your doctor will likely test for rheumatoid arthritis as part of the investigation. If you already have RA, it is important to see a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: joint pain or swelling that lasts for more than two weeks, fatigue, fever, or unintentional weight loss.
The doctor can come to a diagnosis using the following:
Physical exam or a virtual exam (observation of your joints over video)
Medical history
Blood tests and/or imaging tests
If you think you may have rheumatoid arthritis, don't delay in seeking medical attention.
It is important to recognize the signs of rheumatoid arthritis because detection and treatment in the early stages can help prevent joint damage. Symptoms of RA typically include joint pain, stiffness, and swollen joints. The joints may also be warm to the touch and may appear red or inflamed. In severe cases, RA can lead to damage of the cartilage and bone within the joints. RA may also result in fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite.
Obtain referrals to specialists in-person for ongoing, long term management.
Rheumatoid arthritis can also lead to a wide range of other health problems and is related to the following conditions:
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PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Rheumatoid Arthritis." CDC, Accessed June 17, 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis/
Mayo Clinic. "Rheumatoid Arthritis - Symptoms and Causes." Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648.
Arthritis Foundation. "Rheumatoid Arthritis." Arthritis.org, Accessed October 12, 2023, https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/rheumatoid-arthritis.
American College of Rheumatology. "Rheumatoid Arthritis." Rheumatology.org, Accessed October 12, 2023, https://rheumatology.org/patients/rheumatoid-arthritis
Cleveland Clinic. "Rheumatoid Arthritis." Cleveland Clinic, Accessed October 12, 2023, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4924-rheumatoid-arthritis.
Versus Arthritis. "Rheumatoid Arthritis." VersusArthritis.org, Accessed October 12, 2023, https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.