Many people often ask what it feels like to have rheumatoid arthritis. Those who are experiencing the initial symptoms or newly diagnosed are curious on what to expect with the condition.
Varying symptoms
Always bear in mind that there are vital points to bear in mind when it comes to rheumatoid arthritis.
- There is a variation on how individuals experience rheumatoid arthritis. No one develops the disease in the same way, have the same joints affected or have the same degree of disease progression.
- Some individuals achieve remission. In most cases though, they do not achieve remission and experience persistent symptoms that entail treatment.
- The harshness of the symptoms tends to vary from one individual to another. The symptoms can range from mild, moderate or severe at the onset of the disease and can change over time.
What happens during the start?
There are usual characteristics linked with rheumatoid arthritis that can help an individual understand what it feels to have the disease. In a study conducted, rheumatoid arthritis is considered insidious and the symptoms gradually develop. In some individuals, it seems an abrupt torrent of symptoms. Even though it appears sudden, it is not uncommon to think back and recall the initial signs that were overlooked.
In most cases, there is stiffness and pain in the affected joints. One or several joints can be affected at first, but quickly changes to symmetric distribution in the joints. In addition, there is limited range of motion in the affected joints as well.
Actual symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
The earliest indications of joint pain can be intense. In case the large joints are involved, weight bearing can be hard. It simply means that placing full weight on the hip or knee by walking or standing can intensify the pain. Remember that joint stiffness linked with rheumatoid arthritis is typically worse in the morning.
Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis have heightened pain and stiffness upon waking up in the morning, thus making it hard to get out of bed. In most cases, it might take more than an hour for the morning stiffness to subside.
The swelling might be present around the affected joint. There is evident puffiness along with swelling which makes the joint feel tight. Warmth and redness are indications of active inflammation which might be present as well. In case the joint is warm to the touch, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible. In such circumstances, the infection should be ruled out and the cause of the inflammation is determined.
As time passes by, joint deformities can develop, conceivably disrupting with normal movement. Hand deformities can be linked with diminished strength, pain and reduced manual dexterity.
Always bear in mind that proper treatment is required to control joint pain, stiffness and inflammation. The objective of treatment is to ensure that the individual feel as well as possible despite having the condition and to prevent lasting joint damage and even systemic complications.