Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be a challenging condition to live with, but spotting the signs early can prevent further joint damage. In this article, I’ll walk you through nine critical signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Persistent Joint Pain That Affects Both Sides of the Body

One of the hallmark signs of rheumatoid arthritis is persistent joint pain. What’s unique about RA is that this pain typically affects both sides of your body simultaneously. For example, if you feel pain in your left wrist, there’s a good chance you’ll feel it in your right wrist as well. This symmetry is a clear indicator that something more than just a typical ache is going on.

The pain can range from mild to severe, and it often feels like a deep, throbbing sensation. It’s essential to note that this pain doesn’t go away with rest. Instead, it may persist or even worsen after periods of inactivity. So, if you’re experiencing ongoing joint pain that’s symmetrical, it’s worth discussing with your doctor to explore the possibility of RA.

Stiffness in the Joints That Lasts More Than 30 Minutes in the Morning

We all experience stiffness from time to time, especially in the morning. However, with rheumatoid arthritis, this stiffness is different. If you wake up in the morning and feel like your joints are stiff, and it takes more than 30 minutes for them to loosen up, this could be a sign of RA.

This stiffness is particularly noticeable in the hands, wrists, and knees. And guess what? It’s not just limited to the morning. You might find that you’re stiff after sitting for a long period of time or even after a brief nap. This prolonged stiffness is a classic sign of rheumatoid arthritis that shouldn’t be ignored.

Swelling and Tenderness in the Joints That Don’t Go Away

Swelling is another common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis. The affected joints may become visibly swollen and tender to the touch. This swelling can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as gripping a cup or buttoning a shirt.

What’s more, the swelling isn’t something that comes and goes quickly. It tends to linger, and the joints may feel warm when touched. This combination of swelling, tenderness, and warmth is a red flag for rheumatoid arthritis and is something that needs to be addressed by a physician.

Fatigue That Makes You Feel Drained All the Time

Fatigue is a symptom that often gets overlooked, but it’s one of the most common signs of rheumatoid arthritis. This isn’t just feeling tired after a long day—it’s a deep exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest.

People with RA often describe this fatigue as feeling completely drained, even after a full night’s sleep. It can make it challenging to keep up with daily activities and can significantly impact your quality of life. If you’re feeling unusually fatigued and can’t pinpoint a reason, it could be related to rheumatoid arthritis.

Low-Grade Fever That Lingers Without a Clear Cause

A low-grade fever is another symptom that might be linked to rheumatoid arthritis. This fever is usually mild, often hovering around 99°F to 100°F. While it might not seem like much, when paired with other symptoms like joint pain and fatigue, it could be a sign of RA.

This fever tends to come and go, and you might not always notice it right away. However, if you’re experiencing a low-grade fever along with joint pain and fatigue, it’s time to consult with your doctor. This could be your body’s way of signaling that inflammation is at play, which is common in rheumatoid arthritis.

Weight Loss That Occurs Without Any Effort on Your Part

Unexplained weight loss can be a worrying symptom, and it’s one that’s often associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This weight loss happens because your body is working overtime to fight off the inflammation, burning more calories in the process. Plus, the fatigue and loss of appetite that often accompany RA can contribute to this unexpected weight loss. If you notice the pounds dropping without a change in your diet or exercise routine, it’s time to get checked out.

Dry Eyes and Mouth That Persist Over Time

Rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t just affect your joints—it can also impact other parts of your body, including your eyes and mouth. Many people with RA experience dryness in these areas.

Your eyes might feel gritty, as though you have sand in them, and your mouth may feel dry and sticky, even if you’re drinking plenty of fluids. This condition is known as Sjögren’s syndrome, and it often accompanies rheumatoid arthritis. If you’re experiencing persistent dryness in your eyes and mouth, this could be a sign that RA is affecting more than just your joints.

Small, Hard Lumps Under the Skin That Develop Near Affected Joints

These lumps, known as rheumatoid nodules, are another telltale sign of rheumatoid arthritis. They typically develop under the skin near the affected joints, especially around the elbows, fingers, and heels.

Rheumatoid nodules are usually painless, but they can be unsightly and, in some cases, may become tender. They range in size from a pea to a walnut, and while they don’t cause direct harm, their presence is a strong indicator of rheumatoid arthritis. If you notice these nodules forming, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor about them.

Decreased Range of Motion in the Joints That Worsens Over Time

As rheumatoid arthritis progresses, you might notice a decrease in your range of motion. This means that activities that were once easy—like reaching for something on a high shelf or bending down to tie your shoes—become increasingly difficult.

This loss of range of motion happens because the inflammation in your joints causes damage over time, leading to stiffness and reduced flexibility. It’s important to address this symptom early on, as it can lead to long-term joint damage if left untreated. If you’re finding it harder to move your joints as freely as you once did, rheumatoid arthritis might be the culprit.

It’s important for anyone experiencing these early signs and symptoms of RA to seek medical attention. A doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend suitable treatment. Timely diagnosis and treatment of RA can lower the likelihood of experiencing complications from the condition.