Medically reviewed by: Dr. Gregory Bell, MD, AndHealth rheumatologist
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. This means your immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy lining of your joints. This causes painful swelling that can eventually lead to bone erosion and joint deformity if not properly treated. RA often affects smaller joints first, like those in your fingers and toes, and then larger joints like wrists, knees, ankles, and elbows.
AndHealth treats people living with RA in Ohio and Indiana with a whole person, comprehensive approach. You will work with a coordinated rheumatology care team that includes a board-certified rheumatologist and a clinical pharmacist, both with decades of experience.
While every experience is unique, common RA symptoms may include one or more from this list.
These and any other symptoms will be evaluated as part of your appointments with the AndHealth rheumatology provider team.
Managing RA includes daily habits at home or on the go.
These lifestyle habits may be part of a personalized treatment plan that your AndHealth rheumatologist team creates for you, based on your health needs.
A variety of specialty medications are available for RA. They help by blocking specific proteins in your immune system that cause inflammation. This reduces joint swelling, pain and prevents joint damage, improving your quality of life. They are filled by a specialty pharmacy.
These medications may be considered for your rheumatoid arthritis treatment plan during your visits with your rheumatologist and clinical pharmacist providers.
Medications used for rheumatoid arthritis
This is how all healthcare should be.”
Don, AndHealth Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient
65% less inflammation
Measured C-reactive protein (CRP) in lab results
Psoriatic Arthritis
A form of inflammatory arthritis often associated with psoriasis. It affects joints and may cause nail changes and tendon pain. Treatment can control inflammation and help prevent joint damage.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
An inflammatory condition mainly affecting the spine and pelvic joints, causing back pain and stiffness. Early treatment helps maintain mobility and reduce discomfort.