Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints. The signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person, but common ones include:
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis:
Persistent joint pain and stiffness, often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity, are hallmark symptoms of RA. This stiffness can last for hours.
Swelling and tenderness around affected joints, often symmetrical (occurring on both sides of the body), are common in RA.
Affected joints may feel warm to the touch and appear red and inflamed.
RA can lead to decreased flexibility and difficulty moving joints through their full range of motion.
Many people with RA experience persistent fatigue, which may be unrelated to physical exertion or activity level.
Muscles surrounding affected joints may weaken over time due to inactivity and inflammation.
Some individuals with RA may experience low-grade fevers, particularly during disease flares.
RA can cause nerve compression, leading to sensations of numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands and feet.
These firm lumps of tissue may develop under the skin, usually around joints affected by RA.
Unintentional weight loss may occur in some individuals with RA, particularly during periods of active inflammation.