Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. For some people, the condition can damage a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. RA is an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s tissues.
The signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may include tender, warm, swollen joints and joint stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity. Other common symptoms are fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. These symptoms typically begin when someone reaches the age of 30, although they can develop at any age.
Mayo Clinic notes that cigarette smoking can increase the risk of developing RA by as much as 2.4%. The first symptoms of RA often involve pain in one joint or in the fingers, wrists, toes, and ankles. It frequently affects individuals between the ages of 20 and 50, but RA can also occur in young children and older adults. Symptoms can be more severe in early-onset RA, and RA that starts after age 60 is known as late-onset RA.
According to RheumatoidArthritis.org, early stage symptoms of RA don’t always include swelling, but joint stiffness and pain are common, which may begin upon waking up and worsen throughout the day. This can also lead to sluggishness and slow movement. In severe cases, stiff joints can impact a person’s mobility and restrict their ability to stand.
For diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis, doctors use a combination of patient symptoms, physical examination findings, and tests. Verywell Health emphasizes the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment.
RA, being an autoimmune disorder, involves your immune system mistakenly attacking healthy tissues in the body, causing inflammation. This process can make individuals more susceptible to infections, as highlighted by Healthline.
Understanding these symptoms and getting an early diagnosis can be crucial in managing RA effectively. For more detailed information, it is advisable to consult healthcare professionals and refer to reliable health information sources.
