Symptoms and causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Why early diagnosis can help relieve pain

Causes of rheumatoid arthritis: Smoking and infections, along with hormonal changes, play a significant role in the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis (Image: Pexels)

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term systemic condition which usually affects the synovial joints. An autoimmune disorder, it causes inflammation and slow destruction of the cartilaginous tissues. It also leads to bone erosion and gradually affects multiple organ systems.

The course of rheumatoid arthritis is often of a relapsing and remitting type, and an early diagnosis can help in improving the long-term prognosis.

Even though the exact cause of this autoimmune disorder is not known, genetics play a major role in its development. Genes like HLA-DR4 and HLA-DRB1 are involved, and environmental triggers can contribute to the disease as well. Smoking and infections, along with hormonal changes, play a significant role in the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis. In the early stages, it leads to gradual pain in the small joints of the hands and the feet.

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There may be associated swelling as well, and morning stiffness in the affected joints is a common clinical feature in those who have this disorder, which can last for up to an hour. Other symptoms include fatigue and low-grade fever, and some may notice a loss of weight. If left untreated, the symptoms may progressively worsen.

The involvement of joints, like those in the hand (the metacarpophalangeal joints and the interphalangeal joints), occurs in a symmetrical pattern. They become warm and tender, and long-term inflammation can lead to characteristic deformities like ulnar deviation and swan-neck deformity. Others are goalkeeper’s thumb and boutonnière deformity.

Besides these, some other features of rheumatoid arthritis include rheumatoid nodules, reduced haemoglobin leading to anemia, (caused due to chronic disease), and pleuritis, as well as scleritis.

The laboratory investigations can aid in diagnosing this condition. Tests like rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) along with C-reactive protein (CRP) may often be advised by the healthcare provider. Imaging modalities like X-rays and ultrasound may identify the condition in the early stages.

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Lifestyle changes and physiotherapy are often recommended, and adequate rest and exercise can aid in overall treatment. Medications like disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (called DMARDs) are often the first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. Early detection and treatment is necessary to prevent long-term complications.

FAQs on Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. What are the early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

Early signs include gradual pain in small joints of hands and feet, along with associated swelling, morning stiffness lasting up to an hour, fatigue, and low-grade fever.

2. How does rheumatoid arthritis affect the joints?

RA affects synovial joints symmetrically, causing them to become warm, tender, and leading to deformities like ulnar deviation and swan-neck deformity over time.

3. What are some systemic symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

Systemic symptoms include rheumatoid nodules, anaemia, pleuritis, and scleritis, reflecting the condition's impact on multiple organ systems beyond the joints.

4. What diagnostic tests are used for rheumatoid arthritis?

Tests often include rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, and CRP. Imaging like X-rays and ultrasound help identify early-stage RA.

5. How is rheumatoid arthritis managed?

Management includes lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, and medications like DMARDs. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.