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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. While RA can attack joints throughout the body, it is most common in the hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles, and knees. Left untreated, it can damage cartilage and bones, causing joints to become damaged or misshapen. Since joint damage cannot be reversed, it’s important to get diagnosed and treated as soon as you notice the first signs and symptoms of the disease.
Sources: NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and... + 14
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- Arthritis Foundation. How Long Does a Flare Last? Accessed August 4, 2022.
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- Arthritis Foundation. Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Accessed August 4, 2022.
- Arthritis Foundation. What You Need to Know About RA and Lung Disease. Accessed August 4, 2022.
- American Lung Association. Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD). Accessed August 4, 2022.
