To know if you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), watch for these main symptoms: joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, especially in small joints of the hands and feet. The stiffness often lasts longer than 30 minutes in the morning or after periods of inactivity. RA typically affects joints on both sides of the body symmetrically. Other symptoms include warmth and tenderness in the joints, fatigue, low-grade fever, and sometimes lumps under the skin called rheumatoid nodules.
RA symptoms develop gradually over weeks to months and may come and go in flares. If you experience pain or stiffness in multiple joints lasting more than six weeks, especially with morning stiffness lasting 30 minutes or more, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation. A healthcare professional will check for joint swelling, warmth, and tenderness and may order blood tests for inflammation markers (ESR, CRP) and antibodies (rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP) as well as imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound to help confirm the diagnosis.
In summary, signs to watch for are:
- Persistent joint pain and swelling (especially small joints in hands and feet)
- Morning stiffness lasting >30 minutes
- Symmetrical joint involvement
- Fatigue and occasional low fever
- Potential rheumatoid nodules under skin
If these signs persist, consulting a rheumatologist is recommended for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
