Rheumatoid arthritis happens when the body's own defense system doesn't work properly. It affects joints, bones, and organs--often the hands and feet. You may feel sick or tired, and you may have a fever.

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is the main rheumatic disease in a group of conditions called the spondyloarthropathies (SpA). Collectively, they are referred to as spondylitis. Although AS primarily affects the mobility of the spine, it rarely affects the entire spine. Sometimes other areas of the body such as the eyes and or small joints of the hands and feet can be involved, but there are treatments available to reduce symptoms.