Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

It is estimated that around 1.3 million people in the United States suffer from RA, and it is more common in women than men. While there is no cure for this condition, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.

1. Morning Stiffness

One of the earliest signs of RA is morning stiffness. People with RA often experience increased stiffness and joint pain upon waking up or after periods of inactivity.

This stiffness may last for more than an hour and can affect multiple joints in the body, such as the hands, wrists, knees, and ankles.

2. Joint Pain and Swelling

Joint pain and swelling are hallmark symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. The inflammation caused by the autoimmune response leads to the lining of the joints becoming thickened, resulting in pain, warmth, and swelling.

These symptoms often affect the same joints on both sides of the body, such as both wrists or both knees.

3. Fatigue and Weakness

RA can also cause fatigue and weakness, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. The chronic inflammation in the body can lead to feelings of exhaustion even after minimal physical activity or rest.

This fatigue is often accompanied by a general sense of weakness and malaise.

4. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

In some cases, people with rheumatoid arthritis may experience a loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss. The chronic inflammation can affect the body’s metabolism and lead to a decrease in appetite or difficulty eating.

Additionally, the pain and discomfort associated with RA may also contribute to weight loss.

5. Joint Stiffness After Inactivity

A common symptom of RA is joint stiffness after periods of inactivity. If you find that your joints feel stiff and difficult to move after sitting or lying down for a while, it may be an early sign of rheumatoid arthritis.

This stiffness can last for more than 30 minutes and typically improves with movement.

6. Numbness and Tingling

In some cases, people with RA may experience numbness and tingling sensations in their hands and feet. This is often caused by inflammation and swelling around the nerves, leading to nerve compression.

These symptoms can be similar to those experienced in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

7. Joint Deformities

If RA is left untreated or poorly managed, it can lead to joint deformities. The chronic inflammation and damage to the joint tissues can result in joint deformities, such as swan-neck deformity in the fingers or bunions in the feet.

Early detection and appropriate treatment can help prevent or slow down the progression of joint deformities.

8. Eye Dryness and Inflammation

While primarily a joint disease, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, including the eyes. Dryness, redness, and inflammation of the eyes can occur in people with RA.

This condition, known as Sjögren’s syndrome, can cause discomfort and irritation in the eyes.

9. Chest Pain and Shortness of Breath

In some cases, rheumatoid arthritis can affect the lining of the lungs and cause inflammation. This can lead to symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis and experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

10. Flu-Like Symptoms

Some individuals with RA may also experience flu-like symptoms, such as low-grade fever, muscle aches, and general discomfort. These symptoms may appear alongside joint pain and swelling.

It is important to note that these flu-like symptoms are nonspecific and can occur with other illnesses as well.