Overview

Symmetrical joint swelling is a classical persistent symptom of rheumatoid arthritis presenting over some time. Meanwhile when only a few joints are affected at the onset of the disease symmetry may not be visible. The swelling in RA is often described as doughy or spongy. Inflamed joints can occasionally feel warm to the touch. Inflammation structural deformity or both may limit the joint's range of motion. The inflammatory process can result in permanent deformity. 

Persistent tenosynovitis and synovitis cause synovial cysts and displaced or ruptured tendons. Untreated rheumatoid arthritis causes joint damage over time and can lead to serious disability. Advanced RA changes include ulnar deformity, hyperextension or hyperflexion of the Meta carpo phalyngeal joints,  elbow flexion contractures, and carpal bone and toe subluxation  Early detection and treatment can often prevent joint destruction and other complications.

Causes

• Age: Rheumatoid arthritis can affect individuals of any age but it is most common among those between the ages of 40 and 60. 

• Gender: Women are two to three times more likely to have rheumatoid arthritis than men.

• Genetic and environmental factors:  Such as smoking and diet. 

• Weight: If you are overweight you are much more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis. 

• Cigarette smoking: increases the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis significantly. 

• Diet: Eating a lot of red meat and not getting enough vitamin C may increase your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by the following symptoms:                        

• Joint pain

• Joint swelling

• Warmth, and redness as well as stiffness are common particularly when first arising in the morning or after sitting for an extended period.

 Other symptoms include 

• Drowsiness and a lack of energy

• A lack of appetite and weight loss

• Fever or a high temperature 

• Sweating

• Dry eyes

• Chest pain is a typical side effect of inflammation. 

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint in the body but it is most commonly felt in the hands and feet. Both sides of the body typically experience symptoms simultaneously and in the same way but this does not always occur. Some individuals develop soft lumps under the skin around affected joints called rheumatoid nodules. They can be painful at times but are usually not.

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