Discover the early warning signs of rheumatoid arthritis, including fatigue, morning stiffness, joint pain, and other symptoms. Recognizing these signs early can lead to prompt treatment, helping to prevent disease progression and improve quality of life. Pay attention to subtle changes in joint function and overall health, and consult healthcare professionals if symptoms arise.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term autoimmune disorder primarily attacking joints, resulting in swelling, pain, and stiffness. It commonly affects the wrists and hands in a symmetrical pattern and can also involve organs like the lungs and heart or cause anemia. Early signs often develop gradually, starting as mild, intermittent discomfort that intensifies over time.

Because symptoms vary among individuals, identifying early warning signs is essential for timely intervention and avoiding disease progression. Typical early symptoms include:

Persistent fatigue
Ongoing exhaustion, often an initial subtle indicator, worsens with inflammation, anemia, sleep issues, or medication effects, impacting mood and overall health, and may lead to depression.

The intensity of fatigue differs from person to person.

Morning joint stiffness
Stiffness lasting several hours upon waking is typical of rheumatoid arthritis, contrasting with shorter stiffness seen in degenerative conditions. The duration indicates inflammation severity.

Burning or tingling sensations
Tingling or burning in the hands, often from nerve compression caused by inflamed tendons, can be an early warning, along with joint creaking or squeaking from cartilage deterioration.

Mild fever
Slight fever accompanied by joint discomfort and inflammation can suggest early active rheumatoid disease. Higher temperatures above 100°F warrant investigation for infections.

Joint stiffness
Especially in smaller joints like fingers, stiffness may develop gradually but rapidly involve multiple joints.

Joint pain
Pain during movement or rest, mainly in wrists and fingers, is characteristic and often symmetrical in early rheumatoid arthritis.

Decreased joint mobility
Difficulty bending or straightening joints results from inflammation and tissue damage.

Mild swelling
Slight inflammation can cause joint swelling, warmth, and enlargement, an early detectable sign.

Other early symptoms include:

Sleep issues

Weight loss

Reduced appetite

Dry mouth

General fatigue

Eye dryness or irritation

Subcutaneous lumps

Pain during respiration

If these signs appear, seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to lessen the impact of rheumatoid arthritis on health.