Rheumatoid
Arthritis (RA)
MBChB (New Zealand), PGDipObstMedGyn, FRACP (New Zealand), FAMS (Rheumatology)
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to persistent inflammation. This inflammation causes joint pain, swelling and stiffness. RA most commonly affects the small joints of the hands, wrists and feet, but larger joints may also be affected. Without appropriate treatment, ongoing inflammation can damage cartilage and bone, resulting in joint deformity and loss of function. RA may also affect other parts of the body, including the skin, eyes, blood vessels, heart and lungs.
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetics, hormones and environmental factors. These factors influence who develops RA, when it occurs and how active the disease becomes. Understanding these risk factors can support early diagnosis and more effective long-term management.
Certain genetic factors, particularly variations in the HLA (human leukocyte antigen) genes, have been linked to an increased risk of developing RA.
Having a family member with RA or other autoimmune conditions increases the risk of developing RA.
RA can develop at any age, but symptoms most commonly begin between 30 and 50 years of age.
Smoking increases the risk of developing RA and is associated with more severe disease.
Women are more likely to develop RA than men.
Excess body weight contributes to systemic inflammation in the body. Obesity increases the risk of developing RA and may reduce the effectiveness of treatment.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary in severity and may fluctuate over time, depending on how active the inflammation is. RA often affects multiple joints simultaneously, particularly those in the hands, wrists and feet.
Common symptoms include:
Joint pain, swelling and stiffness, often worse in the morning or after periods of rest- Reduced range of motion, making everyday movements more difficult
- Fatigue, which may be persistent or worsen during flare-ups
- Systemic symptoms such as low-grade fever, loss of appetite, unintentional weight loss or a general sense of being unwell
- Eye symptoms, including dryness, redness, pain or light sensitivity
Without timely treatment, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to long-term complications. Persistent inflammation may result in joint damage and deformities. In more severe cases, RA might affect other organs such as the lungs and heart. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to prevent permanent damage and preserve long-term function and quality of life.
Rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to recognise in its early stages, making timely and thorough evaluation important when symptoms first appear. Assessment begins with a detailed medical review and a physical examination to evaluate joint swelling, tenderness and range of motion. Additional investigations may then be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and assess disease severity.
Blood tests help detect markers of inflammation and antibodies associated with rheumatoid arthritis. These results support the diagnosis but are always interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and physical examination findings.
X-rays, ultrasound or MRI scans may be used to detect early joint changes, assess inflammation and identify signs of joint damage.
How Do Rheumatologists Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The primary goal of rheumatoid arthritis treatment is to reduce joint pain and swelling, thereby preventing long-term joint damage and preserving joint function. Effective control of inflammation helps maintain physical function and improve quality of life. At the Centre for Rheumatology & Arthritis, Dr Poh provides a thoughtful, individualised approach, taking into account clinical symptoms, medical history and lifestyle factors to create a sustainable treatment plan that works for you.
DMARDs work by calming the overactive immune response that drives rheumatoid arthritis, helping to prevent joint damage and slow disease progression.
NSAIDs help relieve pain and reduce inflammation, especially during periods of acute flares.
Corticosteroids act quickly to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. They are often used to manage acute flares or to provide symptom relief while other long-term medications take effect.
Biologics and targeted synthetic DMARDs block specific immune pathways responsible for inflammation, offering more precise control of RA activity.
Corticosteroids act quickly to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. They are often used to manage acute flares or to provide symptom relief while other long-term medications take effect.
Biologics and targeted synthetic DMARDs block specific immune pathways responsible for inflammation, offering more precise control of RA activity.
In addition to medications, physiotherapy supports patients in maintaining strength, mobility and function. This may include joint-friendly exercises, activity modifications and strategies to reduce strain during daily tasks. When needed, assistive devices can also be recommended to make movement safer and more comfortable.
Our Rheumatologist
Dr Poh Yih Jia
Senior Consultant Rheumatologist
Dr Poh Yih Jia is a senior consultant rheumatologist with over 20 years of medical experience in New Zealand and Singapore. She specialises in diagnosing and managing autoimmune diseases and inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, with extensive experience caring for patients with both early and long-standing disease.
Her dedication to patient-centred care has earned her multiple accolades, including the Singapore Health Quality Service Award and the Service with a Heart Award. She remains dedicated to advancing rheumatology through clinical practice, education and research, ensuring her patients receive the most current, evidence-based care for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions.
FAQs on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Yes. Rheumatoid arthritis often causes joint pain that is worse in the morning or after periods of rest. Affected joints may feel tender, warm or swollen and the pain can interfere with daily activities. The symptoms may come and go, depending on how active the disease is.
Early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may include joint pain, morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes and swelling in the small joints of the hands or feet. Patients may also experience fatigue, low-grade fever or a general feeling of unwellness. Symptoms often affect joints in a symmetrical pattern.
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect anyone, though symptoms most commonly occur in adults between 30 and 50 years of age. Women are more likely to develop RA than men. Other risk factors include smoking, obesity, family history and certain environmental factors.
Managing RA involves a combination of medical treatment and healthy daily habits. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor disease activity and adjust medications as needed. Taking prescribed medications consistently, staying active with joint-friendly exercises and maintaining a healthy weight all support optimal disease control.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in multiple joints, often in a symmetrical pattern. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, results from gradual wear and tear of the cartilage. RA can also affect other parts of the body like the eye, skin and lungs while osteoarthritis typically causes localised joint pain and stiffness.