Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition. With RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. This leads to inflammation, causing pain, swelling, stiffness and potential joint damage.
Over time, untreated inflammation can damage cartilage and bone and may affect how joints function. RA can also involve other parts of the body. These include the lungs, eyes, skin, heart and blood vessels.
RA is not simply “wear-and-tear” arthritis. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA is an inflammatory condition. Modern treatments can control swelling, improve symptoms and help prevent long-term joint damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are key.
UK HealthCare works closely with referring providers to manage rheumatoid arthritis care. We offer comprehensive evaluation, advanced imaging and access to biologic therapies and clinical trials.
When should RA be suspected?
- Joint swelling lasting more than a few weeks
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30–60 minutes
- Pain in multiple joints (hands, wrists, feet)
- Symptoms affecting both sides of the body
- Difficulty with daily activities
- Family history of autoimmune disease
Common symptoms
- Joint pain, swelling, warmth
- Morning stiffness
- Fatigue
- Reduced grip strength
- Difficulty with motor tasks
- Flares of worsening symptoms
How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, blood tests and imaging.
- History and physical exam
- Blood tests such as RF, anti-CCP, inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP)
- Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI)
What to expect at your first visit
- Detailed symptom discussion
- Joint examination
- Review (or ordering) of labs/imaging
- Additional testing if needed
- Discussion of differential diagnosis and treatment pathways
How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?
Treatment aims to control inflammation, prevent damage and maintain quality of life.
- Conventional disease modifying anti rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) – methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine
- Biologic and targeted therapies
- Short-term corticosteroids
- Physical/occupational therapy
- Exercise and joint protection
- Pain management strategies
What is difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis?
Difficult-to-treat RA refers to persistent symptoms despite at least two classes of advanced treatments (biologics or targeted small molecule inhibitors).
Two main mechanisms include:
- PIRRA: Persistent inflammatory RA
- NIRRA: Non-inflammatory nociplastic pain
Evaluation may include labs, imaging (musculoskeletal ultrasound, MRI), and occasionally advanced testing such as synovial biopsy or genetic studies.
Living with rheumatoid arthritis
- Report symptoms early
- Get regular follow-up care
- Take medicine as prescribed
- Stay active
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Avoid smoking
When to seek medical attention
- Worsening joint symptoms
- New systemic symptoms
- Medication side effects
- Signs of infection
Why choose UK Rheumatology?
UK Rheumatology provides comprehensive, patient-centered care at every stage, including:
- Early diagnosis
- Individualized care
- Advanced therapies
We also bring other UK HealthCare experts in to help guide your care as needed. Your care team may include:
- Rheumatologist
- Advanced practice providers (APPs)
- Primary care provider
- Therapists
- Specialists (interstitial lung disease pulmonologist, cardiologist, orthopaedic surgeon, physical medicine and rehabilitation team, interventional pain management, neurologist) as needed
Learn more
To learn more about rheumatoid arthritis translational research at the University of
Kentucky, please visit the Chakravarti Lab webpage.
Questions?
If you have questions about your diagnosis or treatment, please speak with your healthcare provider. We are here to help guide you through your care.
