Rheumatoid arthritis is a joint disease that affects approximately 2.1 million people, or between 0.5 percent and 1 percent of the U.S. adult population. This type of arthritis is different from others because it generally occurs in a symmetrical pattern, meaning that if one hand is affected, the other will be as well. Possible signs of rheumatoid arthritis include pain, stiffness, and loss of function in the joints. Although it is difficult to diagnose this disease, a healthcare provider can use certain laboratory tests and x-rays to make a diagnosis.
(For more information, click Rheumatoid Arthritis. This article offers an overview of rheumatoid arthritis, including information on the various causes of the disease and possible treatment options. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
