What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, autoimmune inflammatory disease of unknown cause. It is characterized by inflammation of the joints (arthritis), primarily in the hands and feet, but it can affect other parts of the body, such as the knees, elbows, and shoulders.
This condition can lead to progressive joint erosion, causing deformities and limited mobility, which, in some cases, can prevent patients from performing daily tasks.
Recognizing what rheumatoid arthritis is, along with its symptoms and warning signs, is an important step toward early diagnosis of the disease. This can lead to significant improvements in quality of life and help prevent serious complications in the future.
Who is at risk?
In Portugal, it is estimated that more than 40,000 people are affected, the majority of whom are women—at a rate three times higher than that of men. Typically, the first signs appear between the ages of 35 and 50, but they can occur at any age.
Although the cause is unknown, it is known that certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, namely:
- Family history (genetic predisposition);
- Smoking;
- Obesity;
Some studies also point to a possible link with viral or bacterial infections, which trigger the body’s autoimmune response.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
The severity of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms varies; there may be periods when the disease is in remission and others when it is more active. However, some of the most common symptoms include:
- Morning stiffness in the joints, lasting more than an hour;
- Swelling (edema) and redness in the joints;
- Fatigue and muscle weakness;
- Low-grade fever;
- Loss of appetite and weight loss;
- Lumps under the skin, especially on the arms and legs;
- Muscle pain.
It is important to note that these symptoms are not exclusive to rheumatoid arthritis and may be indicative of other medical conditions. The persistence of any of these symptoms should prompt you to consult your primary care physician.
Consequences of a Missed Diagnosis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, progressive disease that affects the inner lining of the joints (symmetrical synovitis). If not diagnosed and treated promptly, this condition can lead to serious complications that may significantly impair the patient’s quality of life, such as:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This condition occurs when the median nerve, which passes through the wrist, becomes compressed due to joint swelling, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and arm.
Tendon tears
These can occur as a result of inflammation and joint wear and tear, which, in turn, leads to difficulty moving and a decrease in muscle strength.
Cervical myelopathy
Although less common, this is a serious complication that can occur in more advanced stages of arthritis. This condition affects the spinal cord and can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness, loss of coordination, and even paralysis.
Joint Deformities
Joint deformities are a common consequence of rheumatoid arthritis, resulting in visible and painful changes in the affected joints.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis—including its symptoms and warning signs—is crucial in the early years, as structural damage begins to occur at this stage and there is an opportunity to prevent the progression of the disease.
Since it is a progressive and chronic condition, it is of the utmost importance to begin appropriate treatment, with the aim of significantly improving the individual’s quality of life and preventing serious future complications, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, joint deformities, or cervical myelopathy (in more advanced stages).
However, this condition can easily be confused with other conditions that share the same symptoms, such as gout and other forms of rheumatism.
For more information on how rheumatoid arthritis can be diagnosed, we recommend reading our article: “Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis—What Do I Need to Know?”
Stay informed and take the necessary steps to protect your health and well-being.
