Signs Of Arthritis

There are several signs of arthritis that you may see if you have this disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, autoimmune illness that has the potential to cause joint destruction and functional disability.

Signs Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which means that the body is literally attacked by its own immune system. There is no known cause of rheumatoid arthritis and more than 2 million people in the United States are affected with this disease. Rheumatoid arthritis has different affects on different people.

Some may have extreme pain and joint destruction while others may simply experience a more mild form of the disease. Signs of rheumatoid arthritis come and go depending on whether or not the disease is active or inactive. This is one of the reasons it is so hard to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis.

When rheumatoid arthritis is active there are several signs that can be observed by your physician. Muscle and joint stiffness are usually the most common signs of rheumatoid arthritis. Muscle and joint stiffness is usually the worst immediately after waking up in the morning.

During flare-ups joints frequently become red, swollen, painful and tender. This is due to the tissue lining of the joint, also known as synovium, becoming inflamed resulting in the production of excessive joint fluid or synovial fluid. With rheumatoid arthritis, multiple joints are usually inflamed in a symmetrical pattern meaning both sides of the body. A symmetrical pattern is not the case with osteoarthritis.

Symptoms of Arthritis Pain

Hardened lumps under the skin are another sign of rheumatoid arthritis. Also know as rheumatoid nodules they normally develop on the hips, heels, back of head and elbows. Another sign of rheumatoid arthritis is cartilage and bone destruction. When this occurs, the joints appear abnormal and become immobile. Inflammation and changes in the normal appearance of joints are most commonly seen in the hands and feet. However, the knees, hips and shoulders may also be affected.

Other more general signs of rheumatoid arthritis can include overall fatigue, lack of appetite and low grade fever. If you have signs of rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to see your doctor. Early diagnosis is essential if you want to live a healthy and active lifestyle.

Damage to the joints can occur early in the disease and be progressive. Some joint damage can occur quite rapidly. Rheumatoid arthritis is often treated with rest, splinting of affected joints and exercise. Medication is also prescribed to help control pain and stiffness, inflammation and further signs of arthritis.