Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes mild to severe pain, swelling and loss of function in the joints. According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than 1.3 million Americans are affected by this disease.
Smaller Joints
According to the Mayo Clinic, this disease begins in the smaller joints such as the wrists, hands, feet and ankles. Eventually, this disease spreads to the major joints such as shoulders, knees and hips.
Flare-Ups
Rheumatoid arthritis signs and symptoms can appear, disappear and vary in severity. These variations and occurrences are defined as flare-ups.
Stiffness
Stiffness typically occurs early in the morning and loosens up during the day. Also, sitting for long periods of time can cause stiffness in affected joints.
Glands
According to the Arthritis Foundation, this disease can affect the glands of the eyes and mouth by reducing the production of tears and saliva. This condition is known as Sjogren's Syndrome.
Other
Other signs and symptoms of this disease are increased fatigue, swelling, muscle pain, depression, loss of appetite, red and puffy hands, and hardened bumps under the skin usually found in the arms.
