Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) Often associated with joint pain, swelling and hardness, but do you know that it can also have hidden symptoms that many people ignore? This chronic autoimmune disease does not only affect the joints – it can affect the entire body. Quickly identifying the subtle signals can cause a great difference in managing RA effectively.

Dr. Naval Mendirta, Senior Advisor – Rumetology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram explains the importance of initial detection. “RA is not just about joint pain. Many patients experience symptoms that do not initially seem related to arthritis, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Identifying these early signs is important to prevent long -term complications. ,

1. Constant fatigue and feeling that even after all night sleep, dry all the time? This may be an initial signal of RA. Fatigue in RA is not just tired – it is a deep, heavy tiredness that can interfere with daily activities. It is often accompanied by a common sense of being unhealthy (unhealthy), which many reject as stress or lack of sleep.

2. Morning hardness that lasts with hard joints for a very long time, is common, especially as we age. However, RA-related hardness is different-it lasts for more than an hour and can be difficult to move in the morning. Dr. Mendiratta explains, “Morning hardness that persists for an extended period is a sign of inflammatory arthritis such as RA. If your joints feel closed every morning, it is time to check. ,

3. Unexplained weight loss

If the number on your scale is falling without any change in your diet or exercise routine, RA may be the reason for this. Chronic inflammation increases metabolic rate and affects appetite, causing unexpected weight loss. This is a frequent-msid warning indication that something can be severe in the body.

4. Tinge and numbness in hands and feet

Do your hands or feet often feel tight or numb? RA can cause inflammation that puts pressure on the veins, causing conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Dr. Mendiratta warned, “Many patients come thinking that they have nerve issues, but it is an RA-related neural compression. Tingling and numbness should never be ignored. ,

5. Low-grain fever that will not go away

Frequent mild fever with no clear reason? RA-related inflammation can cause low-grade fever that come and go. If you are experiencing it with fatigue and joint pain, it can be an initial indicator of autoimmune activity in your body.

6. Eye problems: redness, dryness and sensitivity

RA can only provoke more than joints – it can also affect the eyes. Dry eyes, redness, pain, or sensitivity to light may indicate inflammation. In severe cases, RA can cause scalaritis (inflammation of the white part of the eye), which, if untreated, can give rise to vision problems.

7. Difficulty catching weak hands and objects

If you are suddenly struggling to keep a pen, turn on a dorknob, or hold your toothbrush, it may not only be weakness – it can be RA. The disease often begins by affecting small joints in the hands, making everyday tasks more challenging.

8. Hard lumps under the skin (rheumatoid nodules)

Some RA patients develop firm lumps under their skin, especially around pressure points such as elbow or fingers. These rheumatoid nodules can range from painless to tender and indicate more advanced RA.

9. Breath and chest pain

RA does not stop only on joints – it can also affect the heart and lungs. Inflammation can lead to conditions such as plenitis (inflammation of the lung lining) or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining), causing chest pain, difficulty in breathing, and a chronic cough.

When to see the doctor

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, especially in combination, do not ignore them. “Initial intervention in RA is important,” Dr. Mendirat says. “The sooner we diagnose and start treatment, long -term results are better. Delay in treatment may lead to a significant decline in joint damage, organ participation and quality of life. ,

Rheumatic rheumatism is only more than joint pain – it is a systemic disease that can affect many parts of the body. Quickly identifying hidden signals can help in diagnosis in early stages and increase disease management opportunities.

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