What are the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis that Americans should be aware of?

The Arthritis Strategy By Shelly Manning A plan for healing arthritis in 21 days has been provided by Shelly Manning in this eBook to help people suffering from this problem. This eBook published by Blue Heron publication includes various life-changing exercises and recipes to help people to recover from their problem of arthritis completely. In this program, the healing power of nature has been used to get an effective solution for this health condition.

What are the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis that Americans should be aware of?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, but it can also cause symptoms throughout the body. Americans should be aware of the following signs and symptoms, as early detection and treatment are crucial for managing the disease and preventing joint damage:

1. Joint Symptoms

Pain and Tenderness: RA typically causes pain in multiple joints. The pain is often described as aching or throbbing and tends to be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
Swelling: Inflammation of the joints leads to noticeable swelling. The affected joints may feel warm to the touch.
Stiffness: One of the hallmark symptoms of RA is joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after prolonged inactivity. Morning stiffness that lasts for an hour or more is a common characteristic of RA.
Redness: The skin over the affected joints may appear red and inflamed.
Symmetrical Joint Involvement: RA typically affects joints on both sides of the body in a symmetrical pattern. Commonly affected joints include the wrists, fingers, knees, ankles, and feet.

2. Systemic Symptoms

Fatigue: People with RA often experience extreme fatigue, which can be debilitating and affect daily activities.
Fever: A low-grade fever is sometimes present, particularly during flares of the disease.
Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss can occur due to the body’s inflammatory response and reduced appetite.
Anemia: Chronic inflammation can lead to anemia, which may cause additional fatigue and weakness.

3. Other Signs

Rheumatoid Nodules: Some individuals with RA develop firm lumps under the skin, usually over bony areas such as the elbows. These are called rheumatoid nodules and are a sign of more severe disease.
Eye and Mouth Dryness: RA can cause inflammation in other parts of the body, leading to dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) and dry mouth (xerostomia).
Lung and Heart Issues: Inflammation associated with RA can affect the lungs (causing conditions like pleuritis) and the heart (leading to pericarditis or an increased risk of cardiovascular disease).

4. Progressive Symptoms

Joint Deformities: If left untreated, RA can lead to joint deformities due to the destruction of cartilage and bone. This can result in a loss of function in the affected joints.
Reduced Range of Motion: As RA progresses, the range of motion in the affected joints may decrease, limiting the ability to perform daily activities.

Sources for More Information

These symptoms can vary in severity and may develop gradually or suddenly. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.