Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the more than 100 known forms of arthritis. This type of arthritis is an autoimmune disease, in which the body mistakes itself for a foreign invader and initiates an attack. It usually affects the synovium, which is the lining of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause pain, swelling and deformity in various joints. Since it is an autoimmune disease, it may also affect the whole body. If you have this condition, there are various systemic symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis that you should be aware of.
General Fatigue and Weakness
According to the Arthritis Foundation, along with the typical joint damage that occurs, you may also experience fatigue and general feelings of weakness. The Arthritis Foundation states that fatigue is the most common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis and may be the first signal that something is wrong. The fatigue and weakness occur because your body is constantly fighting inflammation. It can also arise from living with constant pain and muscle aches. Fatigue may be a side effect of the medications taken to treat the condition. The fatigue and weakness that occur with RA goes beyond just feeling tired now and then. They can eventually affect your ability to work or do daily activities. You need to learn what triggers your fatigue and be willing to rest when necessary.
Weight Loss and Decreased Circulation
Rheumatoid arthritis can also lead to a loss of appetite and weight loss. This can lead to anemia and, in severe cases, anorexia. In addition, your circulation may become impaired, which can cause your feet and hands to feel cold. You may also develop a low grade fever because of an overactive immune system. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases states that unlike other forms of arthritis, with RA you may generally not feel well. Since rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, blood tests help your doctor to confirm a diagnosis.
Inflammation in other Organs
The National Institutes of Health states that in some people, rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammation in the eyes, heart and lungs. In the initial stages of rheumatoid arthritis the symptoms may be general and similar to symptoms of many other diseases. As the disease progresses, however, your symptoms may become more severe. If the lining of the heart and lungs are affected, you may have chest pain, trouble breathing and pain when breathing. If structures in the eye become inflamed, you may develop vision disturbances, red and itchy eyes and eye pain. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause Sjogren's syndrome, an inflammation of the lacrimal glands (tear ducts) and salivary glands. This decreases production of saliva and tears. You may develop a dry mouth and dry eyes. In some cases successful treatment of RA helps to ease these systemic symptoms. In other cases your physician may need to address them separately.
References
- Arthritis Foundation: Rheumatoid Arthritis Effects
- National Institutes of Health: Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient Tutorial
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Questions and Answers about Arthritis and Rheumatic Diseases
- Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center: Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Presentation
