Rheumatoid arthritis
At RheumatologistOnCall, our expert team delivers thorough and integrative treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, addressing both symptoms and root causes.
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What is Rheumatoid arthritis?
What are the Most Common Signs and Symptoms?
RA symptoms can vary from person to person, but the most common include:
- Joint Pain and Swelling – Often affecting multiple joints, particularly the small joints in the hands, wrists, and feet.
- Morning Stiffness – Lasting longer than 60 minutes, making it difficult to move after waking up..
- Symmetrical Joint Involvement – RA typically affects the same joints on both sides of the body.
- Nodules & Skin Changes – Firm lumps (rheumatoid nodules) under the skin.
- Fatigue – Persistent tiredness unrelated to activity levels
- Dry eyes and dry mouth – usually called Secondary Sjögren’s Disease
- Other signs such as bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, eye inflammation, shortness of breath from lung involvement, or chest pain due to inflammation affecting the lungs and heart
How is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing RA requires a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies:
- Joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness persistent, more than 6 weeks
- Physical Examination – joint tenderness, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the joints
- Blood Tests – Rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, and CRP to check for inflammation.
Imaging (X-rays, Ultrasound, MRI) – Used to detect joint damage, inflammation, erosions/ thinning of the bones, or deformities.
What Are Our Treatment Options for Patients with RA?
Here at Rheumatologist OnCall, we work on controlling inflammation, reducing symptoms, preventing long-term joint damage, and getting patients into long-term remission.
Our options include:
Medications
- NSAIDs & Corticosteroids – For short-term symptom relief
- DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs) – Methotrexate, Hydroxychloroquine, Leflunomide, Sulfasalazine
Biologic Agents – TNF inhibitors (e.g., Humira, Enbrel), IL-6 inhibitors (e.g., Actemra), JAK inhibitors (e.g., Xeljanz, Rinvoq) and others
Lifestyle & Holistic Approaches
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet – We work with our patients to implement an anti-inflammatory food plan. We offer patients an online course to respect their busy schedule and follow with implementation during our visits and live webinars, using the support of MD board-certified in lifestyle medicine and obesity.
- Supplements – We recommend scientifically evidenced supplements to support your body in fighting inflammation. See some of our recommendations below.
- Exercise & Physical Therapy – We promote physical therapy (online course) and low-impact activities like swimming and yoga to help maintain mobility.
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Best Supplements Recommended by Scientific Evidence
Curcumin Phytosome - Sustained Release
Well-absorbed curcumin for relief from occasional joint and muscle soreness*
Super EPA Pro
Support healthy blood lipids with a high concentration of the omega-3 fatty acid EPA*
Vitamin D-5,000 - NSF Certified for Sport
Supports healthy teeth, bones, and muscles, as well as cardiovascular and immune function*
Disclaimer: Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking prescription medications. Supplements can interact with drugs and may not be suitable for everyone.
Watch More About Rheumatoid Arthritis
Why Choose Rheumatologist OnCall for Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Care?
Expert Rheumatologists
Board-certified specialists with years of experience in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
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Skip long wait times and get care from the comfort of your home or visit our clinic in Irvine, CA.
Holistic & Whole-Body Treatment
We integrate evidence-based medicine, lifestyle modifications, and precision medicine to prevent flares and long-term damage.
Fast & Affordable Access
Direct access to specialists without insurance barriers.
Early diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis help prevent future flare-ups and joint damage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Yes! RA can go into long-term remission, meaning symptoms significantly improve or disappear for a period of time. However, remission does not necessarily mean the disease is cured. It is essential to get the appropriate treatment early, implement lifestyle changes, and have frequent monitoring by a rheumatologist.
A Mediterranean-style diet is considered the best for managing RA due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Key components include
- Fruits and Vegetables – Rich in antioxidants to fight inflammation.
- Fatty Fish (Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines) – High in Omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce joint pain.
- Nuts and Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds provide healthy fats and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Whole Grains – Brown rice, quinoa, and oats help regulate inflammation.
- Olive Oil – Contains polyphenols that protect against inflammation.
- Legumes and Beans – A good source of protein and fiber to support gut health.
Foods to Avoid: Processed foods, refined sugars, red meat, and excessive dairy can worsen inflammation.
Untreated RA can lead to severe joint damage and systemic complications. Some potential risks include permanent joint deformities, severe pain, disability, organ damage, increased risk of osteoporosis, and if not treated appropriately, a shortened life span.
Recent advancements in RA treatment focus on targeted therapies and personalized medicine. Some of the newest options include: JAK Inhibitors (Tofacitinib, Baricitinib, Upadacitinib), IL-6 Inhibitors (Tocilizumab, Sarilumab) and BTK Inhibitors (Under research). Precision Medicine & AI – Researchers are exploring AI-driven approaches to predict treatment response and personalize therapy for each patient.
While both RA and osteoarthritis (OA) affect the joints, they have distinct causes and progression:
Feature | Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) | Osteoarthritis (OA) |
Cause | Autoimmune attack on joints | Wear-and-tear over time |
Inflammation | High – due to immune response | Low – primarily mechanical damage |
Affected Joints | Small joints (hands, wrists, feet) | Large joints (knees, hips, spine) |
Symmetry | Affects both sides equally | Can be one-sided |
Morning Stiffness | Lasts over 60 minutes | Lasts under 30 minutes |
Swelling | Common, with warmth and redness | May have bony overgrowth but no inflammation |
Treatment | DMARDs, biologics, lifestyle changes | Pain management, physical therapy, joint replacement |
If you’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, early intervention is key to managing the disease effectively. Steps to take include:
- Consult a Rheumatologist – A specialist will guide your treatment.
- Start Treatment Early – DMARDs and biologics can slow disease progression.
- Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Diet – A Mediterranean-style diet can help reduce symptoms.
- Stay Active – Low-impact exercises like swimming and yoga help maintain joint function.
- Manage Stress – Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can reduce flares.
- Join Our Support Group – Rheumatoid Arthritis Warriors
A rheumatologist is the best doctor for diagnosing and treating rheumatoid arthritis. They specialize in autoimmune diseases affecting the joints and can provide the most effective treatment options, including medication, lifestyle advice, and monitoring disease progression.
RA and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are both autoimmune diseases that cause joint pain, but they have key differences:
Feature | Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) | Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) |
Cause | Autoimmune attack on joints | Autoimmune attack with skin involvement |
Skin Involvement | No skin symptoms | Psoriasis (scaly skin patches) |
Joint Pattern | Symmetrical (both sides) | Can be asymmetrical |
Nail Changes | Rare | Common (pitting, thickening) |
Spinal Involvement | Less common | Common, affecting the lower back |
Treatment | DMARDs, biologics, NSAIDs | DMARDs, biologics, skin treatments |
There is currently no cure for RA, but early and aggressive treatment can lead to remission, where symptoms are minimal or absent. Advances in biologics and precision medicine continue to improve long-term outcomes.
Yes, chronic fatigue is a common symptom of RA due to:
- Persistent inflammation affecting energy levels.
- Immune system activation leading to tiredness.
- Anemia which is common in RA patients.
- Poor sleep due to pain and stiffness.
Managing inflammation and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce fatigue.
Yes, RA can cause chest pain due to:
- Costochondritis – Inflammation of the cartilage in the ribcage.
- Pericarditis – Inflammation of the lining around the heart.
- Lung involvement – RA can cause lung disease or fluid buildup.
If you experience severe chest pain, seek medical attention immediately to rule out heart complications.
Frequent asked questions
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that mainly affects the joints. It happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, causing persistent inflammation, joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. If it is not treated early and appropriately, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint damage and may also affect organs such as the heart, lungs, and eyes.
What are the most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness lasting longer than 60 minutes, symmetrical joint involvement, fatigue, rheumatoid nodules, dry eyes, dry mouth, bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, eye inflammation, shortness of breath, or chest pain related to lung or heart inflammation.
Which joints are most often affected by rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis often affects multiple joints, especially the small joints in the hands, wrists, and feet. It usually affects the same joints on both sides of the body, which is called symmetrical joint involvement.
Can rheumatoid arthritis cause morning stiffness?
Yes. Morning stiffness is one of the most common signs of rheumatoid arthritis. It often lasts longer than 60 minutes and can make it difficult to move after waking up. Persistent morning stiffness, especially with joint pain and swelling, should be evaluated by a rheumatologist.
Can rheumatoid arthritis affect organs outside the joints?
Yes. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect more than the joints. In some patients, it may involve the eyes, lungs, heart, skin, and other systems. Possible symptoms include dry eyes, dry mouth, eye inflammation, shortness of breath, chest pain, and rheumatoid nodules under the skin.
How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?
Rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, physical examination, blood tests, and imaging. A rheumatologist looks for persistent joint pain, swelling, morning stiffness lasting more than six weeks, joint tenderness, decreased range of motion, inflammation markers, antibody tests, and imaging evidence of inflammation or joint damage.
What blood tests are used for rheumatoid arthritis?
Common blood tests for rheumatoid arthritis include rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, and CRP. These tests help evaluate autoimmune activity and inflammation, but diagnosis is based on the full clinical picture rather than one test alone.
What imaging tests are used for rheumatoid arthritis?
Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI may be used to evaluate joint inflammation, erosions, bone thinning, deformities, and joint damage. Imaging can help confirm disease activity and guide treatment decisions.
What treatments are used for rheumatoid arthritis?
Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis focuses on controlling inflammation, reducing symptoms, preventing long-term joint damage, and helping patients reach long-term remission. Options may include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, DMARDs, biologic agents, JAK inhibitors, lifestyle changes, exercise, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory nutrition.
What medications are used for rheumatoid arthritis?
Medications for rheumatoid arthritis may include NSAIDs and corticosteroids for short-term symptom relief, DMARDs such as methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, leflunomide, and sulfasalazine, biologic agents such as TNF inhibitors and IL-6 inhibitors, and JAK inhibitors such as Xeljanz and Rinvoq.
Can rheumatoid arthritis go into remission?
Yes. Rheumatoid arthritis can go into long-term remission, meaning symptoms significantly improve or disappear for a period of time. Remission does not necessarily mean the disease is cured, so early treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring by a rheumatologist remain important.
Can rheumatoid arthritis be cured?
There is currently no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, early and aggressive treatment can help many patients reach remission, reduce symptoms, prevent joint damage, and improve long-term outcomes. Advances in biologics and precision medicine continue to improve rheumatoid arthritis care.
What is the best diet for rheumatoid arthritis?
A Mediterranean-style diet is often recommended for rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It emphasizes fruits, vegetables, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, olive oil, legumes, and beans. Processed foods, refined sugars, red meat, and excessive dairy may worsen inflammation in some patients.
What is the difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes high inflammation and usually affects small joints symmetrically, such as the hands, wrists, and feet. Osteoarthritis is more related to wear-and-tear over time, usually affects larger joints such as knees, hips, and spine, and may be one-sided with less inflammatory swelling.
Can Rheumatologist OnCall help with rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes. Rheumatologist OnCall provides expert care for rheumatoid arthritis through virtual and in-person consultations. The practice offers board-certified rheumatologists, personalized treatment plans, medication guidance, holistic and whole-body support, lifestyle strategies, and direct access to specialists without long wait times.
