Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints. This inflammation results in pain, stiffness, swelling and eventually can cause the destruction of joint cartilage. According to Dr. Alan Matsumato of the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, rheumatoid arthritis occurs in an estimated 70 of 100,000 individuals in the United States each year.
Joint Symptoms
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may occur at any age, but are most likely to first arise in those between 30 and 60. The first symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are typically mild swelling or stiffness in a joint. The pain in the joint often increases if the joint is moved or used. The region of skin covering and surrounding the inflamed joint may also be red and/or warm to the touch.
Generalized Symptoms
These joint-specific symptoms may be accompanied or preceded by generalized symptoms such as a low-grade fever, fatigue, achiness, weakness, weight loss or depression. These general symptoms may take place in the weeks or months prior to the initial joint pain symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose RA in the earliest stages of the disease. The type and severity of both the joint-specific and the general symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can vary widely between individuals.
Symptom Progression
Rheumatoid arthritis typically occurs in the smaller joints of the hands or feet first, moving to larger joints as the disease progresses. RA is most likely to come and go, causing intermittent flare ups. If the disease progresses unchecked, the cartilage, bone and ligaments of the joints may become damaged. Severe damage to joints caused by rheumatoid arthritis can have crippling effects, resulting in limitations in motion, decreased flexibility and sometimes an inability to use the damaged joint.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Although it is sometimes difficult to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis in the earliest stages of the disease, there are several early symptoms which can help differentiate RA from other illnesses. Rheumatoid arthritis typically occurs in the smaller joints of the hands or feet first, moving to larger joints as the disease progresses. RA almost always occurs to both sides of the body--if the joints of the right hand are inflamed, the joints of the left hand will be impacted as well.
Early Treatment
Early diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is vital in order to prevent severe damage from the disease. Flare ups can be controlled with anti-inflammatory medications, pain medication, steroids or other drugs which slow the disease progression. Preventing the progression of inflammation can minimize joint damage and greatly improve quality of life. Preventing or slowing the damage to joints is preferable, as severe joint damage can only be treated with invasive measures such as surgery.
