There are a number of red flags that can indicate that a person may be suffering from arthritis. Understanding these red flags can help people to identify and seek treatment for the condition as quickly as possible.
The most common red flag of arthritis is joint pain that is persistent and recurring. People with arthritis often experience pain in their joints that is either constant throughout the day, or that comes and goes. This pain can range from mild to severe, and may be accompanied by swelling, redness, and stiffness in the affected joints.
Another common red flag is fatigue. People suffering from arthritis often feel excessively tired, even after sleeping for extended periods of time. This fatigue can interfere with their day-to-day activities and make it more difficult to complete tasks.
In addition, people with arthritis may also experience a decrease in range of motion in their joints. This can cause a person’s movements to become limited or uncomfortable, making it difficult to do things like bend down, reach up, or twist their body.
Other symptoms that can be red flags for arthritis include a loss of appetite, weight loss, fever, and difficulty sleeping. If these symptoms persist, it is important to speak to a doctor to determine if they are related to arthritis.
Finally, if these red flags are accompanied by joint deformities or visible bulges near the joints, it is likely that the person is suffering from arthritis. This is especially true if the deformities are accompanied by pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
By recognizing the red flags of arthritis, people can seek treatment early and reduce the discomfort and disability associated with the condition.