Fast Facts

Although the specific causes of rheumatoid arthritis are unknown, sex, age, genetics, smoking, history of live births and obesity are known risk factors for the condition.
RA mainly attacks the joints, more commonly those in the hands, wrists and knees.
Symptoms of RA often occur in a symmetrical pattern.
About two to three times as many women as men have RA.
Women who have breastfed have a decreased risk of developing RA.
Treatment for RA usually includes the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, which are medications that slow disease and prevent joint deformity.
Physical and social complications of RA include premature heart disease, obesity and employment.
About 40% of patients with RA experience symptoms beyond their joints, in areas such as the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, kidneys, salivary glands, nerve tissue, bone marrow and blood vessels.
In addition to joint pain, stiffness and swelling, RA can cause fatigue, low-grade fever, loss of appetite, neck pain, dry eyes and mouth and lung disease.
Regular physical activity can help patients with RA reduce their risk of developing other chronic diseases.

References:

Rheumatoid Arthritis Central