What are the symptoms of arthritis?
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Symptoms of Arthritis: A Comprehensive Overview
Joint Pain and Swelling in Arthritis
Arthritis is primarily characterized by joint pain and swelling, which are common across various types of the condition, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) . In RA, joint pain is typically symmetrical and affects the hands, wrists, feet, and knees, leading to significant physical impairment . The pain is often accompanied by joint swelling due to synovitis, which can progress to joint deformities if left untreated .
Morning Stiffness and Motion Impairment
Morning stiffness is a hallmark symptom of RA, often lasting for at least an hour before improvement . This stiffness is usually more pronounced in the morning and can severely limit joint motion, contributing to overall disability . The duration and severity of morning stiffness are closely related to disease activity and inflammation levels .
Fatigue and General Malaise
Fatigue is a frequent symptom in RA, affecting up to 82% of patients. This fatigue can be debilitating and is often accompanied by general malaise, weight loss, and fever . These systemic symptoms reflect the chronic inflammatory nature of RA and can significantly impact the quality of life .
Extra-Articular Manifestations
RA can also present with extra-articular symptoms, including rheumatoid nodules, vasculitis, and hematologic abnormalities . These manifestations can affect various organs, such as the lungs, heart, and eyes, leading to conditions like interstitial lung disease, pericarditis, and scleritis . The presence of these symptoms often indicates a more severe disease course and necessitates comprehensive management .
Subclinical Joint Inflammation
Subclinical joint inflammation, detectable through advanced imaging techniques like MRI, often precedes the clinical onset of RA. This inflammation is associated with symptoms such as morning stiffness, pain, and fatigue, which tend to increase as the disease progresses. Monitoring subclinical inflammation can help in early diagnosis and intervention, potentially altering the disease trajectory.
Psychological and Social Impact
The chronic pain and physical limitations associated with arthritis can lead to significant psychological distress, including emotional distress and sleep problems . These issues are more prevalent in individuals with higher disease activity and can further exacerbate the overall disease burden . Effective pain management strategies, including psychological interventions and lifestyle modifications, are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Conclusion
Arthritis encompasses a range of symptoms, primarily joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can severely impact physical function and quality of life. RA, in particular, is characterized by symmetrical joint involvement, morning stiffness, and systemic symptoms like fatigue and malaise. Extra-articular manifestations and subclinical inflammation further complicate the disease, highlighting the need for comprehensive management strategies. Understanding these symptoms is essential for early diagnosis and effective treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
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