Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a type of autoimmune disorder that affects approximately 1.5 million people in the United States. RA primarily affects the joints in the body, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Here are 10 common signs that you may have Rheumatoid Arthritis.
1. Joint Pain and Stiffness
The primary symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is joint pain and stiffness. This can occur in any joint in the body, but is most common in the wrists, hands, and feet. The pain is usually worse in the morning and after periods of inactivity.
Stiffness can also make it difficult to move the affected joints.
2. Swollen Joints
In addition to pain and stiffness, rheumatoid arthritis can cause swelling of the joints. This swelling can make it difficult to move the affected joints, and can also cause tenderness and warmth around the joints.
3. Fatigue
Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause fatigue, which can range from mild to severe. This fatigue can be caused by the inflammation associated with the condition, as well as by the stress of dealing with chronic pain and discomfort.
4. Fever
In some cases, rheumatoid arthritis can cause a low-grade fever, which can be a sign of inflammation in the body.
5. Weight Loss
Weight loss is another common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, which can be caused by a loss of appetite or difficulty eating due to pain and discomfort.
6. Eye Problems
Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the eyes, causing inflammation and dryness. This can result in blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and other eye problems.
7. Difficulty Moving Joints
As rheumatoid arthritis progresses, it can become increasingly difficult to move the affected joints. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as getting dressed or brushing your teeth.
8. Numbness and Tingling
In some cases, rheumatoid arthritis can cause numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. This can be a sign of nerve damage caused by inflammation in the joints.
9. Reduced Range of Motion
Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause a reduced range of motion in the affected joints. This can make it difficult to perform activities that require a wide range of motion, such as sports or certain types of work.
10. Osteoporosis
Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can cause a loss of bone mass, which can lead to osteoporosis. This can cause the bones to become weak and brittle, making them more prone to fractures.