Forsyth Internal Medicine

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect many parts of the body and if it is not treated early and aggressively, has the potential to result in serious joint damage. Rheumatoid arthritis may come on suddenly or appear slowly over time. The symptoms may include pain, swelling, stiffness in the joints and fatigue associated with the above symptoms.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease of the immune system. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the body's own healthy cells, mistaking them for cells that don't belong. This causes inflammation in the lining and connective tissues of the joints.