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Are you experiencing these 16 early rheumatoid arthritis symptoms?

Learn about the 16 early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis to identify if you might be experiencing this condition. Early detection is crucial for effective management by dereklane
Estimated reading time: 3 min 10 sec
Are you experiencing these 16 early rheumatoid arthritis symptoms? Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints. It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints and can lead to significant disability if left untreated.

While arthritis is commonly associated with old age, RA can actually develop at any age. Recognizing the early symptoms of RA is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management of the condition.

In this article, we will discuss 16 common early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis to help you identify if you might be experiencing this condition.

1. Joint pain and stiffness

The hallmark symptom of RA is joint pain and stiffness. This pain often presents as a dull ache that tends to be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Morning stiffness that lasts for more than an hour is a common characteristic of RA.

2. Swollen joints

Inflammation in the joints leads to swelling, which is another early sign of rheumatoid arthritis. Swollen joints may appear red, warm to the touch, and feel tender. The swelling is typically symmetrical, affecting both sides of the body.

3. Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or fatigued is a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis. The persistent inflammation and pain can drain your energy levels and make even simple tasks seem exhausting.

4. Joint warmth

RA can cause the affected joints to feel warm to the touch. Increased blood flow to the inflamed area is responsible for the warmth sensation.

5. Joint deformity

Over time, untreated RA can lead to joint deformity. This occurs as the persistent inflammation erodes the cartilage and bone in the joints, causing irreversible damage.

6. Morning stiffness

As mentioned earlier, morning stiffness lasting for more than an hour can indicate the presence of rheumatoid arthritis. This stiffness can also affect other parts of the body, such as the hands, wrists, and feet.

7. Loss of appetite

RA can contribute to a decreased appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss. This is often due to the general feeling of malaise and fatigue that accompanies the condition.

8. Numbness and tingling

In some cases, rheumatoid arthritis can cause nerve compression, resulting in numbness and tingling sensations. This is more commonly seen in advanced stages of the disease.

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9. Flu-like symptoms

During flare-ups of RA, individuals may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and sweating. These symptoms often accompany increased joint pain and inflammation.

10. Dry eyes and mouth

RA is associated with an autoimmune condition called Sjögren’s syndrome, which leads to dry eyes and mouth. If you notice persistent dryness, it is important to discuss it with your healthcare provider.

11. Limited range of motion

As RA progresses, joint damage can restrict the range of motion. Simple tasks like bending, reaching, or gripping objects may become increasingly difficult.

12. Nodules under the skin

Subcutaneous nodules, small firm lumps, can develop under the skin in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. These nodules are typically painless but may be bothersome cosmetically.

13. Joint redness

RA-related joint inflammation can cause the affected joints to appear red and inflamed. This symptom is commonly seen in the hands, wrists, and feet.

14. Eye inflammation

A less common symptom of RA is inflammation in the eyes, known as scleritis or episcleritis. It can cause redness, eye pain, and vision changes. Prompt medical attention is necessary for eye-related symptoms.

15. Anemia

Anemia, characterized by a low red blood cell count, can occur in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.

16. Generalized muscle aches

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause muscle aches and discomfort throughout the body. This can make it challenging to differentiate whether the pain is originating from the joints or muscles.

If you are experiencing any of these early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Early detection and treatment are essential to manage RA effectively and minimize joint damage.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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