How to Identify Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that turns the immune system against the body. In this disease, the immune response attacks the joint lining in the body. This condition is very painful and can lead to malformations and psychological stress. Over two million Americans are affected by this debilitating condition. Women are three times as likely to be victims of rheumatoid arthritis. If you believe you have rheumatoid arthritis you should immediately contact your doctor.

The severity of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms vary from case to case. The most common symptoms are pain, stiffness and tenderness in your joints; if you experience these, you should seek medical attention. One of the hallmarks in regard to rheumatoid arthritis symptoms is symmetrical affliction. This means that if an area on the left side of the body is showing the signs of swelling and pain, the same area on the right side should show similar symptoms.

Many cases involve pain in the wrists, but the disease is not known to affect the knuckles. Other symptoms include loss of energy, reduction of appetite, loss of weight, depression and oftentimes a low fever. Blood work results done on people with rheumatoid arthritis symptoms usually shows a reduction in the red blood cell count. Examination of the elbows, feet and fingers often reveals rheumatoid nodules, clumps of tissue that form beneath the skin.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can also lead to more dangerous conditions. The internal organs of the body can be in peril due to the disease. Pericarditis, the inflammation of the lining around the heart can lead to heart problems. In addition, pleuritis, similar to pericarditis, can also form, resulting in the inflammation of tissue around the lungs. One of the rarest conditions, however, is Sicca syndrome, also known as Sjogren’s syndrome. This is a symptom affecting the eyes and mouth, causing dryness.

Whatever rheumatoid arthritis symptoms you possess, do not worry, there are ways to efficiently treat the condition. Consult your doctor and do some research. You may have to change you diet and style of living, but in the long run it will be well worth it!