Do you have rheumatoid arthritis? We would love for you to become a patient at VITAL Rheumatology in Austin!

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. While the exact cause is unclear, it's thought to be due to a mix of genetic factors, environmental triggers, and hormonal changes. People with certain genes are more likely to develop RA, especially if they are exposed to things like infections, smoking, or certain chemicals.
The main symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, usually starting in the small joints of the hands and feet. These symptoms tend to affect both sides of the body equally. People with RA often feel very stiff in the morning, sometimes for more than 30 minutes. Besides joint problems, RA can also cause tiredness, fever, and weight loss. If not treated, the inflammation can lead to joint damage and deformities, making it hard to move and do daily activities.
To diagnose RA, we use a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies. We check for signs of joint inflammation and symmetry of symptoms. Blood tests look for specific antibodies and markers of inflammation, like rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP antibodies. Elevated levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) are also common in RA patients. Imaging techniques like X-rays and MRIs help us see the extent of joint damage and inflammation, which is important for both diagnosis and monitoring the disease over time.