What are the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis, and what are its effects?

The effects of rheumatoid arthritis are often bothersome to patients and require the help of a professional to address them. This is why Dr. Peter Lloyd, our board-certified rheumatologist at Seaside Rheumatology and Wellness Center of Encinitas, California, has put together this list of early warning signs of the development of rheumatoid arthritis so patients can intervene as soon as possible for better outcomes. Let’s look at just a few early signs of this condition.

1. Joint discomfort and pain. Discomfort is a telling and initial sign of rheumatoid arthritis. It can impact any joint, typically symmetrical on both body sides. It frequently commences in the minor joints of your fingers, wrists, and ankles. The pain can also extend to your shoulders, hips, and knees.
2. Rigidity and stiffness. Rigidity persisting for over thirty minutes in places like the hands and other joints may indicate rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, it is a classic symptom. Most people commonly experience stiffness in the morning, while others may endure it throughout the day. Conversely, some people report that their initial morning rigidity reduces as the day progresses, only to reappear in the evenings. Long periods of immobility, such as extended sitting, may also result in joint rigidity.
3. Swelling and inflammation. Those with rheumatoid arthritis could be affected by inflammation, predominantly in areas like the wrist and finger joints nearest to the hand. This is typically noticeable to the individual before it’s apparent to others. 
4. Fatigue. Feeling extremely tired throughout the day or experiencing a sense of exhaustion despite very little physical activity can be another early warning sign of rheumatoid arthritis. This fatigue is often accompanied by muscle weakness and lack of energy.
5. Changes in appetite and weight loss. Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect one’s appetite and lead to unexplained weight loss. This may occur due to inflammation in the body and feelings of nausea caused by certain medications used to treat the condition.
6. Numbness and tingling sensations. Tingling or numbness in hands and feet can indicate nerve damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis. These symptoms need to be evaluated by a board-certified rheumatologist as soon as possible to determine the cause.

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