Early Symptoms of RA Similar to Gout

Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects the lining of joints. In its early stages, it can imitate symptoms of another condition that causes pain to certain joints, an ailment known as gout.

Effects

• The smaller joints in the human body typically feel the effects of rheumatoid arthritis before the larger ones do, a scenario that can make an individual think gout is the responsible agent since gout usually materializes in these places.

Location

• Gout often will target the big toe, a place that early bouts of rheumatoid arthritis will typically affect. The wrists, ankles, feet and hands are victims of both conditions, with RA eventually capable of progressing into the larger joints like the shoulders and hips.

Considerations

• Swelling and redness may occur in joints when gout or RA is at work, but RA can eventually deform joints permanently.

Time Frame

• Gout and rheumatoid arthritis are similar in that the instances of pain associated with each can come and go. In time, RA can cause long-lasting periods of intense discomfort.

Causes

• Gout is caused by certain factors, primarily heightened levels of uric acid in the blood. Rheumatoid arthritis is an immune disorder in which the body mistakenly attacks its own tissues.