Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints, often leading to pain, swelling, and deformity. This condition is more prevalent in women than men and typically emerges between the third and sixth decades of life. RA’s insidious onset can impact various body parts, including fingers, eyes, mouth, lungs, skin, and heart. To comprehend the complexities of RA, particularly how it affects the hands, a visual guide is invaluable.
One of the earliest symptoms of RA is joint stiffness, which is usually more severe in the mornings and after periods of inactivity. Patients may also experience fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. Initially, RA tends to affect smaller joints, especially those connecting the fingers to the hands and toes to the feet. As the disease progresses, symptoms can spread to larger joints, like the wrists and knees.
Among the various manifestations of RA in the hands are swelling, nodules, ulnar drift, and contractures. These changes can significantly alter hand function and quality of life. It’s not uncommon for patients with advanced RA to undergo hand surgery to alleviate symptoms or restore function.
For further insights into rheumatoid arthritis, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, explore resources from Verywell Health, Healthline, WebMD, Getty Images, Medical News Today, and the Mayo Clinic. These sources provide a comprehensive look at RA, including high-quality images and detailed information about the condition’s impact on the body.
