Warning Signs of Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. It is a common condition, and there are various types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Knowing the warning signs of arthritis can help you get the medical care you need to manage your symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
Joint Pain
One of the most common warning signs of arthritis is joint pain. This pain may be persistent or may come and go. It may be mild or severe, and it may be localized to a single joint or may affect multiple joints. It can also be accompanied by swelling, redness and warmth in the affected joint.
Stiffness
Another warning sign of arthritis is stiffness in the joints. This stiffness can be worse in the morning and may improve with activity. It can also worsen with inactivity and may cause difficulty with activities such as climbing stairs or getting out of a chair.
Loss of Range of Motion
Arthritis can cause a loss of range of motion in the affected joints. This can make it difficult to perform activities that require a wide range of motion, such as reaching overhead or bending down. It can also cause difficulty with daily activities such as putting on shoes or brushing your hair.
Weakness
Joint pain and stiffness can also cause weakness in the affected joints. This can make it difficult to perform activities that require strength, such as carrying groceries or lifting a heavy object. It can also cause difficulty with activities such as opening a jar or turning a doorknob.
Fatigue
Fatigue is another common warning sign of arthritis. This fatigue can be caused by the pain and stiffness of arthritis, as well as the medications used to treat it. It can be mild or severe, and can interfere with daily activities.
If you are experiencing any of the warning signs of arthritis, it is important to talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and reduce the severity of symptoms.