Patient Education

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects millions of adults worldwide. At Axios Rheumatology in Gig Harbor, Washington, Dr. Daniel Ene-Stroescu provides expert diagnosis and personalized care to help patients manage symptoms and protect long-term joint health.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis, often abbreviated as RA, is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by mechanical wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is driven by systemic inflammation and can affect multiple joints symmetrically. Over time, persistent inflammation can damage cartilage and bone, leading to joint deformity and loss of function if left untreated.

The condition most commonly begins in the small joints of the hands and feet, but it can also involve the wrists, knees, shoulders, and other larger joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of any age, though it most frequently appears between the ages of 30 and 60. Women are diagnosed with RA more often than men, and a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors is believed to contribute to its development. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical to slowing disease progression and preserving joint function.

Common Symptoms

Joint pain and swelling, often in the hands, wrists, and feet

Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes

Fatigue and low energy

Symmetric joint involvement affecting both sides of the body

Warmth and redness around affected joints

Reduced range of motion as the disease progresses

Treatment Options

Modern rheumatoid arthritis care focuses on early intervention and tight control of disease activity. Treatment is highly individualized and may combine medication, lifestyle guidance, and advanced regenerative therapies. At Axios Rheumatology, Dr. Ene-Stroescu builds each plan around the patient's specific symptoms, disease severity, and goals.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow progression

Biologic therapies targeting specific immune pathways

Anti-inflammatory medications for symptom control

Regenerative therapies such as Shockwave and HILT laser therapy

Personalized monitoring and treatment plan adjustments

When to Seek Specialized Care

If you are experiencing persistent joint pain, swelling, or prolonged morning stiffness, a thorough evaluation by a board-certified rheumatologist can help determine whether rheumatoid arthritis or another rheumatic condition is the cause. Timely specialist care can prevent irreversible joint damage, reduce flares, and improve quality of life. Because RA is a systemic disease, untreated inflammation can also affect the heart, lungs, and eyes, making early and ongoing management especially important.

At Axios Rheumatology & Regenerative Medicine in Gig Harbor, patients receive unhurried, concierge-style appointments and direct access to their physician. Dr. Ene-Stroescu combines traditional rheumatology expertise with advanced regenerative options to deliver comprehensive, personalized care for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

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Information on this website is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.