Arthritis symptoms can vary widely depending on the type of arthritis, the severity of the condition, and the joints affected. However, common symptoms shared by many types of arthritis include:

Common Symptoms

  1. Joint Pain: Persistent or intermittent pain in one or more joints.
  2. Stiffness: Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  3. Swelling: Inflammation and swelling in the affected joints.
  4. Redness: The skin over the affected joints may appear red.
  5. Warmth: The affected joints may feel warm to the touch.
  6. Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the joint through its full range of motion.
  7. Tenderness: The joint may be sensitive to touch or pressure.
  8. Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or experiencing a lack of energy.
  9. Muscle Weakness: Muscles around the affected joint may become weaker over time due to reduced use.
  10. Fever: Some forms of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis, can cause low-grade fever.

Symptoms Specific to Common Types of Arthritis

1. Osteoarthritis (OA)

  • Bone Spurs: Extra bits of bone, called osteophytes, may form around the affected joint.
  • Grating Sensation: A feeling of bone rubbing against bone, especially when using the joint.
  • Increased Pain with Activity: Pain may worsen with joint use and improve with rest.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

  • Symmetrical Joint Involvement: Typically affects joints on both sides of the body equally, such as both hands or both knees.
  • Systemic Symptoms: Fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
  • Rheumatoid Nodules: Firm lumps under the skin, commonly around pressure points.

3. Psoriatic Arthritis

  • Skin Symptoms: Red, scaly patches of skin (psoriasis).
  • Nail Changes: Pitting or separation of the nail from the nail bed.
  • Enthesitis: Inflammation at the sites where tendons or ligaments attach to bones.

4. Gout

  • Sudden and Severe Attacks: Intense joint pain that often starts at night.
  • Affected Big Toe: Commonly affects the big toe, but can also occur in other joints.
  • Tophi: Hard lumps of uric acid crystals that can develop under the skin.

5. Ankylosing Spondylitis

  • Lower Back Pain: Chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  • Reduced Spinal Flexibility: Over time, the spine may become less flexible.
  • Postural Changes: In severe cases, the spine may curve forward.

6. Juvenile Arthritis

  • Swelling and Stiffness: Persistent joint swelling and stiffness in children.
  • Growth Problems: Can affect bone development and growth.
  • Eye Inflammation: Some types of juvenile arthritis can cause eye inflammation (uveitis).

Less Common Symptoms

  1. Anemia: Low red blood cell count, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis.
  2. Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss may occur in severe cases.
  3. Eye Problems: Conditions like uveitis in juvenile arthritis, or scleritis in rheumatoid arthritis.
  4. Lung Issues: Inflammation or scarring in the lungs, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis.
  5. Skin Rashes: Specific to conditions like lupus or psoriatic arthritis.

Conclusion

Arthritis can present a range of symptoms that impact daily activities and overall quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing symptoms effectively and preventing further joint damage. If you experience persistent joint pain, stiffness, swelling, or other related symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management plan.

 

Find out more information about Arthritis.