What damages can rheumatoid arthritis cause?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. The damage caused by RA extends beyond the joints and can impact various body systems. Here are some of the potential damages associated with RA:

1. Joint Damage:

- RA causes inflammation and thickening of the joint lining (synovium), leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and restricted movement in the affected joints.

- Over time, the inflammatory process can erode bone and cartilage, causing joint destruction and deformity.

- RA commonly affects the small joints of the hands, feet, wrists, and ankles, but can also involve larger joints such as knees, hips, shoulders, and elbows.

2. Deformities:

- As the disease progresses, the damage to joints can lead to deformities, such as:

- Boutonniere deformity: Affects the finger joints causing the middle joint to bend while the end joint remains straight.

- Swan neck deformity: Involves the finger joints where the end joint bends and the middle joint becomes hyperextended.

- Ulnar deviation: Occurs when the fingers deviate towards the ulna (the inner side of the forearm).

3. Bone Loss:

- RA can lead to osteoporosis, a condition characterized by reduced bone density.

- The inflammation caused by RA affects bone metabolism and impairs bone formation, increasing the risk of fractures and bone damage.

4. Tendon and Ligament Damage:

- RA can cause inflammation and weakening of tendons and ligaments surrounding the joints.

- This can result in joint instability, pain, and difficulty with joint movement.

5. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

- RA may increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist.

- Inflammation and swelling in the wrist can put pressure on the nerve, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers.

6. Lung Involvement:

- RA can affect the lungs, leading to conditions like interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pleural effusion (fluid accumulation in the pleural space).

- ILD can cause shortness of breath, cough, and fatigue.

7. Heart Disease:

- RA is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

- The chronic inflammation associated with RA contributes to the development of atherosclerosis and plaque buildup in the arteries.

8. Anemia:

- Some people with RA may develop anemia, a condition characterized by low red blood cell counts.

- Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin.

9. Skin Issues:

- RA can cause nodules (rheumatoid nodules) to develop under the skin, usually around joints, elbows, and pressure points.

- These nodules are firm, painless lumps and can be a sign of more severe disease.

10. Eye Problems:

- RA can affect the eyes, leading to conditions like dry eyes, inflammation of the cornea (keratitis), and inflammation of the sclera (scleritis).

- These issues can cause discomfort, redness, and vision problems.

It's important to note that the severity and progression of these damages can vary among individuals with RA. Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and proper management of the disease can help slow disease progression, minimize damage, and improve overall well-being.