Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation in the lining of the joints. RA comes and goes in episodes known as flare-ups and remission. It develops when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.
The primary symptoms associated with RA are joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. The condition may also lead to some other general symptoms and inflammation in body parts other than joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms generally develop over a period of several weeks. However, some cases witness rapid progression in just a few days.
Did you know? 👉 RA is commonly believed to affect only joints. However, it is important to note that it is an autoimmune condition that initially affects the lining of the joints but can also affect the skin, eyes, lungs, kidneys, and even the heart.
Symptoms may vary from individual to individual. They may come, go, or even change over time.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Rheumatoid Arthritis affects the joints first. It can lead to symptoms in any joint of the body. However, small joints (fingers, toes, hands, and feet) are often affected first. RA generally affects joints symmetrically (both sides of the body, at the same time).
Joint Pain
RA typically causes an aching, throbbing pain. The pain is often worse after long periods of inactivity or in the mornings.
Stiffness
RA-affected joints can feel stiff. For instance, if the joints in your hands are affected, you may not be able to bend your fingers completely or form a fist. Just like pain, joint stiffness is also worse after periods of rest or in the morning.
Stiffness in the morning is also common in osteoarthritis. However, in OA, this usually subsides in 30 minutes. But in RA, the stiffness tends to last longer.
Also read 👉: Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Inflammation
RA affects the lining of joints, causing inflammation. As a result of this, joints tend to swell up, become tender & hot to the touch. You might also notice some redness around the affected joints. Some people even develop firm swellings known as rheumatoid nodules under the skin around affected joints.
Other RA Symptoms
Other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include fatigue, high temperature (recurring or prolonged fever), sweating, weight loss, and poor appetite. It can also lead to dry eyes (if the eyes are affected) and chest pain (if the lungs or heart are affected).
👉 Also read: Uncommon Signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis
When to Visit a Doctor?
If you or a loved one has been experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you must seek professional medical help. Rheumatoid arthritis, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, including but not limited to joint deformity, kidney damage, etc. The right rheumatoid arthritis treatment strategies can help delay damage and improve your overall quality of life.
Sohana Hospital, Mohali, is equipped for the treatment and management of any (rheumatic) autoimmune disease with a dedicated rheumatology department. Advanced diagnostics, world-class treatment facilities, and expert rheumatology doctors in Chandigarh ensure you receive the best care for your condition.
Don’t delay treatment – Get expert RA care at Sohana Hospital