Self Assessment - Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

• Early signs of rheumatoid arthritis include weight loss, fatigue, appetite loss, muscle ache, weakness, and stiffness of joints in the morning.
• You may notice weakness and pain in one or more parts of the body and rheumatoid arthritis can cause swollen glands.
• Typically rheumatoid arthritis will cause pain and swelling in the joints.
• Symptoms include feeling stiff and having trouble moving, which lead to a decreased range of motion.
• Pain and limited motion usually result in having trouble participating in regular activities and completing daily routines.
• As the body fights RA, the body is under increased amounts of stress which results in fatigue and decreased endurance.
• Often getting through a typical day of work, school, or parenting can be difficult.
• Individuals with RA may experience pain differently, however, most people experience episodes when the pain feels significantly worse and can be incapacitating.
• Symptoms may occur in one or multiple joints, including the fingers, elbows, shoulders, ankles, knees, neck, and toes.
• Other common symptoms include anemia, vision problems, fevers, lung disorders, numbness, swelling, or inflamed glands.
• Severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis can cause permanent deformities and disfigurement.
• Deformities with RA may include; ulnar deviation, boutonniere, swan neck, and Z-thumb deformities.
• If you experience these symptoms or suspect you have RA you should consult your doctor.

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