Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. In some people, the condition can damage a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, heart, and blood vessels. Early detection and treatment of RA are crucial for managing its progression and impact on daily life.
The early stage symptoms of RA don’t always include swelling and redness in the joints but can present with more subtle signs. For instance, tenderness in the smaller joints, particularly those that attach the fingers to the hands and the toes to the feet, is a common early symptom. As RA progresses, symptoms often spread to the wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips, and shoulders, usually affecting the same joints on both sides of the body.
Hormones play a significant role in the development of RA, with a notably higher incidence in women compared to men. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, can also influence the risk and severity of RA. Early detection is key, and understanding the signs and symptoms of RA can lead to better management and treatment outcomes.
The four stages of rheumatoid arthritis include early-stage, moderate-stage, severe, and end-stage RA. Symptoms might not become apparent until the moderate stage, or stage 2, of the disease.
Diagnosing RA can be challenging in its early stages as the signs and symptoms often mimic those of other diseases. No single blood test or physical finding can definitively confirm the diagnosis. During a physical examination, doctors typically check for swelling, redness, and warmth in the joints.
For more detailed information on the symptoms and causes of RA, visit Healthline, Mayo Clinic, and Verywell Health for comprehensive insights.
