Know How to Detect Rheumatoid Arthritis in its Early Stages

Rheumatoid arthritis is a common disorder that occurs when the person’s immune system attacks the joints, making them inflamed. Spotting the condition early enough to begin treatment prevents more severe outcomes, such as joint damage and disability. Jay M. Shah, MD is a certified physician who deals with pain medicine for this and other diseases. Book an appointment to get long term relief from arthritis pain.

Here are the early signs and symptoms that will help you detect rheumatoid arthritis:

Stiffness

Stiffness is one of the early indications that you might need to be checked for arthritis. It starts to occur in the small joints, most likely the fingers. At first, it will affect a small area then progress to the whole body. This feeling most likely affects those who are still for a long time.

Pain in the joints

Another sign of RA is pain in the feet, wrist, or finger joints. Inflammation also makes the joint lining thicker, thereby resulting in excess production of joint fluid. These factors increase pressure on the capsule around the joint, irritating the nerve endings. As a result, the victim starts to experience some pain.

Dryness

Sometimes, RA could result in the development of another autoimmune problem called Sjogren’s syndrome. People with these two will experience dry mouth, vagina, nose, eyes, and skin. Therefore, having dry eyes could mean that you need to be checked for Rheumatoid arthritis.

Tenderness in the joints

Having joint tenderness could be an early signal for RA. Middle or base joints in the hands could feel a bit tender during movement. You may feel the same for the joints in your feet and toes. This feeling could make you lift toes or walk on your heels. If you notice such soreness, you should not ignore the signs. Seek medical attention.

Tingling and numbness

Inflammation in the joints could cause nerve compression, thereby resulting in sensation loss. The patient begins to experience some numbness or tingling in the feet and hands. The doctor should check as it could mean damaged nerves.

Warmth in joints

Inflammation affecting the joints will produce warmth, even before you begin to notice redness or swelling. It is an early sign of RA that should not be ignored.  

Joint redness

When joints begin to turn color to get a red appearance or discoloration, it could be a symptom of RA. The inflammation causes blood vessels surrounding the joints to widen, allowing more blood and, consequently, a red skin appearance.

Decreased motion in joints

RA affects the joints in its early stages, giving you difficulties when bending your wrists back and forth. In later stages, damage in the joints may affect tendons and ligaments, making it difficult to straighten or bend them.

Smoking and obesity have been linked to arthritis disease. When you notice any of the early stages, specialists advise that you seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment will help in managing the condition. You do not have to deal with the pain any longer. Schedule an appointment online with Samwell Institute for Pain Management for effective solutions.