10 Early Signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis You Shouldn’t Ignore

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 11, 2024

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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints but can also impact other parts of the body. It often shows up in areas like the hands, wrists, elbows, legs, and ankles. Interestingly, even though it's known for joint issues, RA can also affect the eyes and lungs. This autoimmune condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, leading to a variety of symptoms. The good news is, with proper management, its effects can be significantly reduced.

Fatigue

Feeling tired is something we all experience, but with RA, fatigue can be overwhelming. Many people with this condition report severe exhaustion that doesn't go away with rest. In fact, up to 98% of RA patients have felt extreme tiredness at some point. This fatigue can be sudden or long-lasting, making it hard to get through the day even after a full night's sleep. So, if you're constantly feeling wiped out for no apparent reason, it might be a sign to check in with your doctor.

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General Symptoms

Beyond joint issues, RA can bring about general symptoms that affect your overall well-being. These might include a lack of energy, low-grade fever, excessive sweating, poor appetite, weight loss, dry eyes, and even chest pain. Because these signs are pretty general, they can be mistaken for other ailments. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms without a clear cause, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions.

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Swelling

Another hallmark of RA is joint swelling. This happens when the lining of the affected joints becomes inflamed, causing them to swell and sometimes feel warm or tender to the touch. In some cases, firm lumps called rheumatoid nodules can develop under the skin near the joints. Applying topical creams and staying hydrated might help reduce swelling, but always talk to your doctor before trying home remedies.

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Foot Trouble

Believe it or not, the feet are commonly affected by RA. The forefoot, in particular, can be sensitive due to the many nerves in that area. Many women with RA find it uncomfortable to wear heels, and some people first discover they have RA after visiting a foot specialist. Additionally, RA can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot.

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Numbness or Tingling in the Hands

Experiencing numbness or a tingling sensation in the hands is another symptom of RA. This feeling, similar to when your hand "falls asleep," is often due to carpal tunnel syndrome. It's caused by swelling that puts pressure on the nerves in the arm and can lead to difficulty sleeping or performing tasks with your hands. If you notice these sensations, it's a good idea to get it checked out.

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Eye Problems

RA doesn't just stop at the joints—it can also affect your eyes. Conditions like Sjogren's syndrome, which causes dryness in the eyes, mouth, nose, throat, or skin, are more common in people with RA. This happens because inflammation interferes with the glands that produce moisture. Sometimes, eye issues may be one of the first signs of RA, leading eye doctors to refer patients to rheumatologists.

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Achy Joints in Pairs

One of the more distinctive signs of RA is joint pain that occurs symmetrically—that is, in the same joints on both sides of the body. For example, both wrists or both knees might ache. This pain is often persistent, lasting a week or more, and can be more intense than typical overexertion or age-related arthritis. If you're experiencing long-lasting, symmetrical joint pain, it might be time to consult a doctor.

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Morning Stiffness

Waking up with stiff joints can be a common experience for those with RA. After periods of inactivity, like sleeping, joints can become stiff and sore. While many people might feel a bit stiff in the morning, RA-related stiffness can last for several hours or even most of the day. Incorporating gentle exercises before bed and after waking up can help ease this stiffness.

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Locked Joints

Some people with RA experience what's known as "locked joints," particularly in the knees and elbows. This occurs when inflammation causes swelling of the tendons around a joint, making movement difficult. It can be quite painful and may limit mobility. In some cases, cysts can form behind the knees, further complicating movement and causing discomfort.

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Nodules

Rheumatoid nodules are firm lumps that develop under the skin near affected joints. They often appear on the back of the elbows but can show up in other areas, including the eyes. The number and size of nodules can vary and are generally associated with more advanced RA. However, they can occur at any stage of the disease and in people of all ages. These nodules can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions, like gout, so proper diagnosis is important.

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