Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
 Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the lining of some joints. The ailment, which more often affects women than men, is one of the most serious and disabling types of arthritis. In all, 1.3 million people in the United States suffer from rheumatoid arthritis - 70 percent of them are women who developed it between the ages of 30 and 50.
Common rheumatoid arthritis symptoms include:
- Joint swelling
- Red, puffy hands
- Stiff joints in the morning
- Joint pain
- Nodules, or firm bumps, that form under the skin of your arms
These symptoms often first appear in smaller joints - such as the ones in your hands, feet, and ankles. As the disorder progresses, the symptoms may start to affect the joints in your shoulders, neck, knees, hips, and jaw. Often, sufferers will experience symptoms symmetrically, meaning they'll affect the joints in the same area on both sides of the body. These symptoms can vary and intensity and they may come and go over time. These symptoms are best treated early, because if they are left unaddressed they can result in mobility loss in the late stages of the disease.
If you think you are suffering with rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. He or she can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
|
