Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissues. While the condition can affect any tissue, it destroys the lining of the joints in most cases. It causes severe swelling and inflammation, eventually leading to bone erosion and joint deformity. Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the same joint on both sides of the body, such as both hands or knees, and most frequently affects the hands, knees, or ankles.

Symptoms
The common signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are:

• Pain in the joints
• Joint stiffness
• Swollen joints
• Fever
• Weakness or fatigue

There are times when the symptoms worsen (known as flares) and times when they improve (remissions).

Causes
The immune system creates antibodies to destroy viruses and bacteria that cause infection. When a person has rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints instead of harmful pathogens, leading to various symptoms. What causes this faulty immune response is unknown, but experts believe genetics and hormones are potential risk factors.

Treatment and therapy
When a person is diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a healthcare expert may recommend different treatments to lower the inflammation in the joints, reduce pain, and slow down joint damage. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the inflamed joint lining or realign a joint.

Besides recommending rheumatoid arthritis treatments, doctors may ask patients to seek the services of a physical or occupational therapist who may teach them different stretches to keep the joints flexible. The therapist may also suggest new, less tiring ways to do daily tasks without straining the joints.

Food tips
There is no single perfect meal plan for rheumatoid arthritis. Patients should include various healthy foods in their nutrition regimen that help improve joint health and overall fitness. Here are a few tips:

• The Mediterranean meal plan, which comprises fish, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, may help reduce inflammation.
• Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, tuna, trout, and other cold-water fish may help relieve aching joints and morning stiffness by lowering inflammation.
• Borage seed oil, when used with rheumatoid arthritis treatments, may help one feel better, but patients should talk to a doctor before using this remedy.
• Saturated fats in foods like butter and red meat have been linked to inflammation. One should limit them and replace them with almonds, avocados, and olive oil for healthy fat sources.

Remedies
Besides using doctor-recommended treatments and eating the right foods, patients can manage their symptoms with home and natural remedies. Here are a few rheumatoid arthritis remedies to try:

• Exercise
  People with this disorder may benefit from dynamic, low-stress exercises. Swimming or cycling might help strengthen the muscles surrounding the damaged joints, slowing the condition’s progression.
• Rest
  While rest is essential for relieving joint discomfort, excessive relaxation or a sedentary lifestyle may aggravate painful joints. One can work with a doctor or physical therapist to find the right balance between rest and physical activity.
• Warm or cold compress
  Applying a warm compress to the joints can stimulate blood circulation and reduce muscle tension. On the other hand, a cold compress can reduce inflammation, swelling, and soreness.