What symptoms does rheumatoid arthritis cause?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease with the main symptoms including joint pain, swelling, stiffness and limited mobility, which may lead to joint deformity and dysfunction in severe cases. Treatment requires a combination of medication, physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments.

1. Joint pain and swelling

The classic symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are joint pain and swelling, usually in the small joints of the hands, wrists, knees and feet. The pain may be constant or intermittent, especially worse in the morning or after a long period of inactivity. The swelling is due to the accumulation of fluid due to inflammation of the synovium in the joints. In treatment, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen can relieve pain and inflammation, and glucocorticoids such as prednisone can also be used for short-term control of acute symptoms.

2. Joint stiffness

Joint stiffness is a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, especially morning stiffness, which may last for more than 30 minutes. The stiffness will gradually decrease with activity. Physical therapy such as heat, massage and moderate exercise such as swimming and yoga can help improve joint flexibility. Anti-rheumatic drugs such as methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine can delay disease progression and reduce stiffness.

3. Joint deformation and dysfunction

Long-term untreated rheumatoid arthritis may lead to the destruction of joint cartilage and bone, which in turn causes joint deformity and dysfunction. Common manifestations are "swan neck" or "button flower" deformities of the finger joints. Surgical treatments such as joint replacement, arthrodesis or synovectomy can be used for severe cases. Early diagnosis and standardized treatment are the key to preventing joint deformities.

Rheumatoid arthritis has a variety of symptoms, and early identification and treatment are crucial. Medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can effectively control symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. If you experience joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, you should seek medical attention immediately to prevent the condition from worsening.