Rheumatoid arthritis, also known as RA, is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own joints and immune cells. This disease can affect any joint but most commonly targets the fingers, wrists, knees, and ankles. If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection of RA is key to preventing permanent joint damage and other mobility issues from occurring. The following are common symptoms of RA:
1. Joint swelling
A common symptom of RA is swelling of the joints. Swelling is usually the first sign of RA and can be painful. Due to swelling, it can be difficult to move and may interrupt your daily activities. In addition to pain, swelling can limit motion and cause joint stiffness.
2. Joint pain
Joint pain is one of the most common symptoms of RA. Joint pain can be sharp and stabbing or dull and achy. Joint pain may also be in a specific joint and not spread throughout the entire joint or body. In addition to joint pain, RA sufferers may experience other symptoms like swelling, warmth, redness or stiffness. The most common symptom of RA is a fever. RA sufferers often feel warmer than usual, with a body temperature ranging from 102 to 104 degrees F. Fever is usually the result of inflammation and occurs when there is an increase in inflammatory cells in the body. Fever results in an increase in the inflammatory cells.
4. Joint stiffness
Joint stiffness occurs when muscles become stiff and painful due to inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues. Joint stiffness typically occurs only in one joint at a time, but it can occur more than once on different joints simultaneously (e.g., both knees). Joint stiffness usually does not affect activity levels or range of motion due to its slight intensity and short duration. However, some patients will experience severe joint stiffness that limits movement during this time.
5. Fatigue
Fatigue is a symptom that can occur in people with RA. Fatigue usually occurs in the morning and can last for several hours, but it may also occur throughout the day or even at night. Fatigue is caused by low energy levels resulting from inflammation and other symptoms of RA. Fatigue causes a lack of energy, or “energy depletion.” It can also cause a lack of mental concentration, making it hard to complete daily tasks.
6. Unexplained weight Loss
Weight loss is common in people with RA and can result from the many symptoms associated with the disease. Weight loss can range from 1 to 5 pounds per week and may be accompanied by an increased appetite, nausea, and vomiting. However, it is not uncommon for people with RA to experience a weight gain of up to 10 pounds per week.
RA is a very common disease that affects more than 1.5 million Americans. The symptoms can be very debilitating and painful, but they can also be controlled with proper and early treatment. RA is a chronic disease that requires long-term management to control symptoms and prevent the progression of the disease. Treatment of RA can include medications, physical therapy, injections, surgery and other therapies. Treatment options depend on condition severity and how the patient responds to treatment.
