According to the search results, there are different ways to categorize the stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but most sources agree on four stages. Here are the four stages of RA:
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Early-stage RA or Stage 1: During this stage, there is inflammation inside the joint, and the tissue in the joint swells up. Symptoms may include joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, primarily in small joints such as hands, feet, and knees. These sensations can usually disappear with movement.
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Moderate-stage RA or Stage 2: In this stage, the synoviums inflammation causes damage to the joint cartilage and bone. Cartilage is the tissue that covers the end of bones at the joint site. The bone next to where cartilage ends in the joint is the first area that experiences damage due to RA. Symptoms may include swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving joints.
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Severe RA or Stage 3: Inflammation is wearing away cartilage and causes erosion of bones near your joints. The joints may become unstable, and you might start to notice deformities as the bones move around. Symptoms may include increased pain, swelling, decrease in mobility, and loss of muscle strength.
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End-stage RA or Stage 4: In this stage, there is no longer inflammation in the joint, but the damage continues. The joint might stop working, and you may still have pain, swelling, stiffness, and lack of motion. Your muscles may be weak, too. It could be time for joint replacement surgery.
Its important to note that the progression of RA can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all four stages. The stage of the disease can influence treatment, and rheumatologists follow a "treat-to-target" strategy when it comes to managing the disease and preventing progression.
