Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain, inflammation, and damage throughout your body.

The joint damage that RA causes usually happens on both sides of the body.

So, if a joint is affected in one of your arms or legs, the same joint in the other arm or leg will probably be affected, too. This is one way that doctors distinguish RA from other forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis (OA).

 

Causes and risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis:
 

There are a number of genetic and environmental factors that may increase your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

Age. The onset of RA is highest among adults in their 50s. Risk continues to increase with age for people assigned male at birth. RA often occurs in people assigned female at birth during their child-bearing years.

Sex. People assigned female at birth are two to three times more likely to develop RA than people assigned male at birth.
 

Genetics. People born with certain genes, called HLA class II genotypes, are more likely to develop RA. The risk of RA may be highest when people with these genes have obesity or are exposed to environmental factors like smoking.
 

Smoking. Studies show that people who smoke cigarettes are at an increased risk of developing RA.

Obesity. Having obesity can increase the risk of developing RA.
 

Diet. High consumption of sodium, sugar (especially fructose), red meat, and iron is associated with an increased risk of developing RA.

If you're looking for a natural solution to rheumatic problems, HillVital Master Balm may be right for you.