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Symptoms of Rheumotoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the synovium membranes that surround the joints. Striking over a million people in the United States, this destructive joint condition may cause irreversible damage to ligaments, bone and cartilage. Although RA can strike at any time, the onset of symptoms is most common between the ages of 40 and 60. Although the cause of RA is undetermined, lifestyle choices, like smoking, and heredity may play a part.

  1. Symptom Activity

    • The symptoms of RA may appear and disappear as the patient progresses from an active cycle of the disease (flare) to remission. In addition to the inflammation of the synovium, an active cycle may include the swelling of glands, membranes and other tissues within the body.

    Stiff Joints

    • Synovial fluid fills the synovium membrane that surrounds the joint. When RA strikes, the synovium becomes inflamed, and the amount of fluid within the membrane increases, creating pressure in the joint. The patient experiences stiffness and decreased mobility in the affected joints, frequently more pronounced in the morning.

    Symmetry

    • RA often strikes both side of the body in a symmetrical pattern. More than one joint is commonly affected, such as the small bones in both hands and both wrists.

    Nodules

    • Small, firm rheumatoid bumps may appear beneath the skin. Often forming on the arms, especially the elbows, these bumps are common during an active RA flare and may be painful in some patients.

    General Malaise

    • During an RA flare-up, the patient may run a low-grade fever and become easily fatigued. He may experience a loss of appetite and achy muscles.

    Complication Symptoms

    • Patients with RA may experience inflammation of the glands, tissue and the linings of organs, resulting in the development of subsequent disorders. If the glands of the mouth and eyes are involved, the patient may develop Sjogren's syndrome, and if the spleen is involved, Felty's syndrome is a possibility. In addition, other medical conditions may develop if the white blood cells during an RA flare attack the linings of the lungs or the heart or other organs.

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