Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a long-term autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own joint tissues. This triggers chronic inflammation, pain, and swelling, most often affecting joints symmetrically, such as the wrists, knees, fingers, and feet. Over time, RA can damage cartilage and bone, limit mobility, and reduce quality of life. While the causes are linked to genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors, RA is not curable. However, with early diagnosis and proper management, symptoms can be controlled and disease progression slowed.