| A rheumatoid arthritis joint is a sad joint, indeed. Yet, | | | | appearance and warm to the touch. If the swelling |
| this condition is all-too-common. It affects millions of | | | | gets too bad, the fluids underneath may have to be |
| people worldwide, including over 2 million in the United | | | | drawn off with a syringe. |
| States alone. It's an autoimmune disorder that slowly | | | | 2. Symmetry. In this disease, it's typical for the same |
| destroys the joints, and also causes full-body | | | | joint to be affected on both sides of the body. For |
| symptoms, such as fatigue, fevers, and anemia. | | | | example, if the elbow were affected on the right side, |
| A rheumatoid arthritis joint can be difficult to diagnose, | | | | you can expect it to be affected on the left side, as |
| particularly in younger people where arthritic diseases | | | | well. While this is not always the case, it IS the norm |
| are typically not expected. Many doctors simply don't | | | | for this condition. |
| want to believe that a young patient can have this | | | | 3. Stiffness in the affected joints. With this condition, |
| condition, even though it can affect anyone of any | | | | stiffness is to be expected, but it's usually most |
| age, even babies. However, early treatment is | | | | common in the morning, and may take a few hours to |
| essential to preventing long-term joint damage and | | | | work itself out. |
| maintaining quality of life. That's why it's so important to | | | | In addition to these top 3 rheumatoid arthritis joint |
| recognize the symptoms, so proper medicines and | | | | symptoms, you may also experience small nodules |
| other treatments can be given right away. | | | | under the skin on your fingers, irritation and |
| Here are the most common symptoms you should | | | | inflammation of the eyes, and other similar symptoms. |
| look for if you suspect this disease: | | | | However, if you have any of the top 3 symptoms for |
| 1. Visible swelling of the joints. This is the most | | | | more than a couple of weeks, be sure to see your |
| common symptom, and usually the first to appear. | | | | doctor to get an official diagnosis, so you can start |
| While not every joint may be affected, those that are | | | | treatment right away. |
| will have noticeable puffiness and may be red in | | | | |