What Are the Early Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder primarily affecting the joints. Recognizing the early signs and symptoms is crucial for timely treatment and management. Some of the major early indications of RA include:

Joint Pain and Inflammation: RA usually begins in smaller joints, affecting the fingers and toes before progressing to larger joints like the wrists and knees. Symptoms like joint tenderness, swelling, warmth, redness, and stiffness, particularly in the mornings or after periods of inactivity, are common.

Systemic Symptoms: Apart from joint problems, RA can cause systemic symptoms like fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. These symptoms contribute to the overall feeling of illness in affected individuals.

Hand and Finger Symptoms: As highlighted by Tim Petrie, DPT, OCS, an orthopedic specialist, the hands and fingers are often early targets of RA. Symptoms in these areas can include pain, discoloration, stiffness, weakness, joint deformity, grinding sensations, and the development of nodules.

Rheumatoid Nodules: These firm bumps of tissue most commonly form around pressure points, such as the elbows, and can be a distinctive feature of RA.

Sjogren’s Syndrome: A related symptom, Sjogren’s syndrome, can cause dry eyes and mouth, further complicating RA.

Early detection and treatment of RA are vital to managing the disease and preventing severe joint damage. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

For more detailed information on rheumatoid arthritis, you can visit the following resources:

Mayo Clinic
Rheumatoid Arthritis.org
Verywell Health
Verywell Health
Medical News Today
Healthline