Results for "chronic condition"
Conditions Encyclopedia Entry 1775675048
** **Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)** is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints, leading to potential long-term damage and disability. ## Overview Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage in the joints. RA can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, or ethnicity, although it is more common in women and typically begins between the ages of 30 and 60. The symptoms of RA can vary widely from person to person, but often include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and fatigue. In addition to its physical symptoms, RA can also have a significant emotional and psychological impact on those affected. Many people with RA experience anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation and loneliness due to the chronic nature of the condition and the limitations it can impose on daily life. However, with proper treatment and management, it is possible to manage the symptoms of RA and maintain a good quality of life. ## History/Background The exact cause of RA is still not fully understood, but research suggests that it is a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. The condition has been described in medical literature for centuries, with the first recorded mention of a similar condition dating back to ancient Greece. However, it was not until the 19th century that RA was formally identified as a distinct medical condition. In the early 20th century, the discovery of the role of the immune system in RA led to the development of new treatments, including corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). These treatments have revolutionized the management of RA, allowing people to live longer, healthier lives with fewer symptoms. Today, RA is a major public health concern, with an estimated 1% of the global population affected. ## Key Information ### Symptoms * Joint pain and stiffness * Swelling and redness in the affected joints * Fatigue and weakness * Loss of range of motion and flexibility * Morning stiffness that lasts for more than an hour * Joint deformity and damage over time ### Diagnosis * Medical history and physical examination * Laboratory tests, including blood tests and imaging studies * Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-citrullinated protein antibody (anti-CCP) tests * X-rays and other imaging studies to assess joint damage ### Treatment * Medications, including DMARDs, biologics, and corticosteroids * Physical therapy and exercise to maintain joint mobility and strength * Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking * Surgery to repair or replace damaged joints ## Significance Rheumatoid Arthritis is a significant public health concern due to its impact on individuals, families, and society as a whole. The condition can lead to long-term disability, reduced productivity, and increased healthcare costs. However, with proper treatment and management, it is possible to manage the symptoms of RA and maintain a good quality of life. In addition to its individual impact, RA also has significant economic and social implications. The condition is estimated to cost the global economy billions of dollars each year, and it can also have a significant impact on family relationships and social connections. INFOBOX: - **Name:** Rheumatoid Arthritis - **Type:** Chronic autoimmune disorder - **Date:** First described in ancient Greece, formally identified in the 19th century - **Location:** Worldwide - **Known For:** Chronic inflammation and damage in the joints, leading to potential long-term disability TAGS: Rheumatoid Arthritis, autoimmune disorder, chronic condition, joint pain, inflammation, fatigue, disability, treatment, management, public health concern.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1775777887
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to potential long-term damage and disability.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1777263788
** This encyclopedia entry is about **Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)**, a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. **CONTENT:** ## Overview Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. RA can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the hands, feet, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. The symptoms of RA can vary from person to person, but they often include joint pain and stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth around the affected joints, as well as fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. RA is a systemic disease, meaning that it can affect not only the joints but also other parts of the body, such as the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. In severe cases, RA can lead to joint deformity, disability, and even life-threatening complications. Despite its severity, RA is a treatable condition, and with proper management, many people with RA are able to lead active and fulfilling lives. ## History/Background The first recorded description of RA dates back to the 17th century, when the English physician Thomas Sydenham described a condition that he called "gouty arthritis." However, it was not until the 20th century that RA was recognized as a distinct medical condition. In the 1940s and 1950s, researchers began to understand the role of the immune system in RA, and the development of new treatments, such as corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), revolutionized the management of the condition. ## Key Information RA is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including: * **Genetics:** RA tends to run in families, and certain genetic markers have been identified as risk factors for the condition. * **Environmental factors:** Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as silica and heavy metals, has been linked to an increased risk of RA. * **Hormonal factors:** Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can trigger RA in some people. The symptoms of RA can be divided into two main categories: * **Joint symptoms:** Joint pain and stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth around the affected joints. * **Systemic symptoms:** Fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss. RA is diagnosed based on a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. The diagnosis is often made using a combination of the following criteria: * **American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria:** A set of criteria that includes symptoms, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to diagnose RA. * **Rheumatoid factor (RF) test:** A blood test that detects the presence of RF, an antibody that is often present in people with RA. * **C-reactive protein (CRP) test:** A blood test that measures the level of CRP, a protein that is produced in response to inflammation. ## Significance RA is a significant public health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is estimated that RA affects up to 1% of the global population, and it is a leading cause of disability and work loss. RA also has a significant economic burden, with estimated annual costs of over $100 billion in the United States alone. Despite its severity, RA is a treatable condition, and with proper management, many people with RA are able to lead active and fulfilling lives. The development of new treatments, such as biologic agents and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, has revolutionized the management of RA, and researchers continue to explore new treatments and therapies. **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** Rheumatoid Arthritis - **Type:** Chronic autoimmune disorder - **Date:** First described in the 17th century - **Location:** Affects joints worldwide - **Known For:** Chronic inflammation and pain in the joints **TAGS:** Rheumatoid Arthritis, autoimmune disorder, chronic condition, joint pain, inflammation, fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, disability, work loss, public health concern, economic burden, treatment, management, biologic agents, Janus kinase inhibitors.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1775732884
** This encyclopedia entry is about **Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)**, a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. **CONTENT:** ## Overview Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. RA can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the hands, wrists, knees, elbows, and ankles. The symptoms of RA can vary from person to person, but they often include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. RA is a condition that requires ongoing medical management, and it can significantly impact a person's quality of life. However, with proper treatment and self-care, many people with RA are able to manage their symptoms and live active, fulfilling lives. In this encyclopedia entry, we will explore the history and background of RA, its key information and facts, and its significance in the medical community. ## History/Background The exact cause of RA is still not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The condition has been described in medical literature for centuries, with the first recorded mention of RA dating back to the 16th century. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the condition was formally described and named. In the early 20th century, researchers began to understand the role of the immune system in RA, and the development of new treatments, such as corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), revolutionized the management of the condition. Today, RA is recognized as a major public health concern, with an estimated 1% of the global population affected by the condition. ## Key Information * **Symptoms:** Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite * **Causes:** Genetic and environmental factors, including smoking and obesity * **Risk Factors:** Family history, age, and sex (women are more likely to develop RA than men) * **Diagnosis:** Blood tests, joint examination, and imaging studies (such as X-rays and MRI scans) * **Treatment:** Medications (such as DMARDs and biologics), physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications (such as exercise and diet) * **Complications:** Joint damage, osteoporosis, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease ## Significance RA is a significant public health concern, with an estimated 1% of the global population affected by the condition. The condition can have a major impact on a person's quality of life, causing pain, stiffness, and fatigue that can make everyday activities challenging. However, with proper treatment and self-care, many people with RA are able to manage their symptoms and live active, fulfilling lives. The significance of RA extends beyond the individual, with the condition also having a major impact on the healthcare system and the economy. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), RA is a major cause of disability and lost productivity worldwide, with an estimated 10% of healthcare costs attributed to the condition. **INFOBOX:** - Name: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - Type: Chronic autoimmune disorder - Date: 16th century (first recorded mention) - Location: Global - Known For: Chronic joint inflammation and pain **TAGS:** Rheumatoid Arthritis, autoimmune disorder, chronic condition, joint pain, inflammation, pain management, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, public health concern.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1776176292
** This entry is about **Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)**, a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, affecting millions of people worldwide. ## Overview Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. It is a chronic autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to damage and deformity. RA can affect anyone, but it is more common in women and typically begins between the ages of 30 and 60. The symptoms of RA can vary from person to person, but they often include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. RA is a progressive condition, meaning that it can worsen over time if left untreated. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Treatment for RA typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and alternative therapies. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and prevent joint damage. ## History/Background The history of RA dates back to ancient times, with descriptions of joint inflammation and pain found in the works of Hippocrates and Galen. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that RA was first described as a distinct medical condition. In the early 20th century, the discovery of the rheumatoid factor, a protein found in the blood of people with RA, helped to establish the condition as a separate entity from other forms of arthritis. ## Key Information * **Causes:** RA is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. The exact cause of RA is unknown, but it is thought to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. * **Symptoms:** The symptoms of RA can vary from person to person, but they often include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. * **Diagnosis:** RA is typically diagnosed based on a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, including blood tests and imaging studies. * **Treatment:** Treatment for RA typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and alternative therapies. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and prevent joint damage. * **Complications:** Untreated RA can lead to a range of complications, including joint deformity, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease. ## Significance RA is a significant public health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is estimated that over 1 million people in the United States alone have RA, and the condition is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. RA can have a profound impact on a person's quality of life, causing pain, disability, and emotional distress. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. INFOBOX: - **Name:** Rheumatoid Arthritis - **Type:** Chronic autoimmune disorder - **Date:** First described in the 19th century - **Location:** Worldwide - **Known For:** Chronic inflammation and pain in the joints TAGS: Rheumatoid Arthritis, autoimmune disorder, chronic condition, joint inflammation, pain management, treatment options, complications, public health concern. **Important Notes:** * If you suspect you or a loved one may have RA, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes. * RA is a complex condition that requires ongoing management and care. Working with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan is essential for managing symptoms and preventing complications. * Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress, can help to reduce the risk of developing RA and improve outcomes for those already affected.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1776510124
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to disability and reduced quality of life.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1775544010
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to potential long-term damage and disability.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1777045935
** **Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)** is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, affecting millions of people worldwide. **CONTENT:** ## Overview Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. It is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to damage and deformity. RA can affect anyone, but it is more common in women and typically develops between the ages of 30 and 60. The symptoms of RA can vary from person to person, but common signs include joint pain and stiffness, swelling, and fatigue. RA is a chronic condition, meaning that it cannot be cured, but it can be managed with treatment. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. Treatment options for RA include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Medications used to treat RA include disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, and corticosteroids. Physical therapy can help improve joint mobility and strength, while lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and getting regular exercise can also help manage the condition. ## History/Background The history of RA dates back to ancient times, with descriptions of joint inflammation found in the works of Hippocrates and Galen. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that RA was first described as a distinct medical condition. In 1800, the British physician William B. O'Shaughnessy described a condition called "rheumatoid arthritis" in a series of lectures on the subject. Over the years, our understanding of RA has evolved, and treatment options have improved significantly. In the 1950s and 1960s, the development of DMARDs revolutionized the treatment of RA, and more recently, the introduction of biologics has provided new hope for patients with severe disease. ## Key Information * **Prevalence:** RA affects approximately 1% of the global population, with women being more likely to develop the condition than men. * **Symptoms:** Common symptoms of RA include joint pain and stiffness, swelling, fatigue, and loss of function. * **Causes:** The exact cause of RA is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. * **Treatment:** Treatment options for RA include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. * **Complications:** Untreated or poorly managed RA can lead to joint deformity, disability, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. ## Significance RA is a significant public health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. It can have a profound impact on quality of life, causing pain, disability, and emotional distress. However, with proper treatment and management, it is possible to slow disease progression and improve outcomes. RA research has also led to a greater understanding of the immune system and the development of new treatments for other autoimmune conditions. **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** Rheumatoid Arthritis - **Type:** Autoimmune disorder - **Date:** 1800 (first described by William B. O'Shaughnessy) - **Location:** Global - **Known For:** Chronic inflammation and pain in the joints **TAGS:** Autoimmune disorder, chronic condition, joint inflammation, pain management, treatment options, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics, corticosteroids, physical therapy, lifestyle changes. **When to seek professional care:** If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness, swelling, or fatigue, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
Health & MedicineSchizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a chronic and complex mental disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and flat or inappropriate affect, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1777502045
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by an adverse reaction to gluten, leading to inflammation and damage in the small intestine, which can cause a range of symptoms and complications if left untreated.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1776981784
Alopecia areata is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by hair loss on the scalp, face, or body, with unpredictable patterns and varying degrees of severity.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1779420499
** Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to disability and reduced quality of life if left untreated. **CONTENT:** ### Overview Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a type of autoimmune disease, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation and damage. This results in pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joints, which can eventually lead to deformity and loss of function. RA can affect anyone, but it is more common in women, particularly between the ages of 30 and 60. The symptoms of RA can vary from person to person, but common signs include joint pain and stiffness, particularly in the hands, feet, wrists, and knees. Other symptoms may include fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, RA can lead to complications such as osteoporosis, eye inflammation, and cardiovascular disease. ### History/Background The exact cause of RA is still not fully understood, but research suggests that it is a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The first recorded description of RA dates back to the 17th century, when the English physician Thomas Sydenham described a condition called "gouty arthritis." However, it wasn't until the 19th century that RA was recognized as a distinct disease. In the early 20th century, the discovery of the role of the immune system in RA led to the development of new treatments, including corticosteroids and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Since then, there have been significant advances in our understanding of RA, including the discovery of genetic markers and the development of biologic therapies. ### Key Information * **Prevalence:** RA affects approximately 1% of the global population, with women being more likely to develop the condition than men. * **Symptoms:** Joint pain and stiffness, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. * **Complications:** Osteoporosis, eye inflammation, and cardiovascular disease. * **Treatment:** Medications, such as DMARDs and biologics, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. * **Prognosis:** With proper treatment, RA can be managed, but it is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care. ### Significance RA is a significant public health concern, as it can have a major impact on a person's quality of life. Untreated RA can lead to disability and reduced mobility, which can affect a person's ability to work and engage in daily activities. Additionally, RA is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other comorbidities. The significance of RA extends beyond the individual, as it also has economic and social implications. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), RA is estimated to cost the global economy over $1 trillion annually. Furthermore, RA can have a significant impact on a person's mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. **INFOBOX:** - **Name:** Rheumatoid Arthritis - **Type:** Chronic autoimmune disorder - **Date:** First described in the 17th century - **Location:** Global, but more common in developed countries - **Known For:** Chronic joint inflammation and pain, leading to disability and reduced quality of life **TAGS:** Rheumatoid Arthritis, autoimmune disease, chronic condition, joint pain, inflammation, disability, quality of life, public health concern, economic burden, mental health.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1777886525
This encyclopedia entry provides an in-depth look at **Diabetes Mellitus**, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, and its various aspects, including history, types, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1776830525
This article provides an in-depth look at **Diabetes Mellitus**, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, its history, key information, significance, and importance of seeking professional care for proper management and treatment.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1779856701
Alopecia areata is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by patchy hair loss on the scalp or other parts of the body, often resulting in significant emotional distress and social impact.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1779106624
This encyclopedia entry provides an in-depth look at **Diabetes Mellitus**, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, its history, key information, significance, and importance of seeking professional care for proper management and treatment.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1777989305
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic, genetic disorder that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs, causing severe respiratory and digestive problems.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1778991306
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to potential long-term damage and disability.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1778489765
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and tender points, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Health & MedicineConditions Encyclopedia Entry 1779288184
** This encyclopedia entry is about **Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)**, a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints. **CONTENT** ### Overview Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to stiffness, swelling, and damage to the affected areas. RA can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the hands, feet, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. The condition is characterized by a cycle of inflammation, joint damage, and remission, which can lead to significant disability and reduced quality of life. RA is a systemic condition, meaning it can affect multiple systems in the body, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and nervous system. In addition to joint pain and inflammation, people with RA may experience fatigue, fever, and weight loss. The condition can also increase the risk of developing other health problems, such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer. ### History/Background Rheumatoid Arthritis has been described in medical literature for centuries, with the first recorded mention dating back to the 18th century. However, it wasn't until the early 20th century that the condition was fully understood and recognized as a distinct medical entity. The discovery of the rheumatoid factor, a protein that is present in the blood of people with RA, was a major breakthrough in the understanding of the condition. In the 1950s and 1960s, the development of corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive medications revolutionized the treatment of RA. These medications helped to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the disease, improving the quality of life for people with RA. In recent years, the development of biologic medications, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) inhibitors, has further improved treatment options for RA. ### Key Information * **Prevalence:** RA affects approximately 1% of the global population, with women being more likely to develop the condition than men. * **Symptoms:** Common symptoms of RA include joint pain and stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joints. * **Causes:** The exact cause of RA is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. * **Risk Factors:** Risk factors for RA include family history, smoking, and certain infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus. * **Diagnosis:** RA is diagnosed based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. * **Treatment:** Treatment for RA typically involves a combination of medications, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic medications, and corticosteroids. ### Significance Rheumatoid Arthritis is a significant condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can have a profound impact on a person's quality of life, causing pain, stiffness, and fatigue, as well as reducing mobility and independence. In addition to the personal impact, RA also has significant economic and social implications, with estimated annual costs of over $100 billion in the United States alone. The significance of RA extends beyond the individual, with implications for families, communities, and society as a whole. It highlights the need for increased awareness, education, and research into the condition, as well as the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term damage and disability. **INFOBOX** - **Name:** Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - **Type:** Chronic autoimmune disorder - **Date:** First described in medical literature in the 18th century - **Location:** Affects people worldwide - **Known For:** Chronic inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to stiffness, swelling, and damage to the affected areas **TAGS:** Rheumatoid Arthritis, autoimmune disorder, chronic condition, joint pain, inflammation, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, biologic medications, corticosteroids, quality of life, disability, economic impact, social implications.