5 Unusual Symptoms That Could Be Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is often associated with well-known symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. But what if I told you that some symptoms of RA are not as obvious? In fact, there are a number of unusual symptoms that could signal the onset of this autoimmune condition. Here are five unexpected signs that might be pointing toward rheumatoid arthritis.
Persistent Fatigue That Doesn’t Go Away with Rest
You might think that fatigue is just a part of life, especially if you’re juggling work, social activities, and other responsibilities. However, persistent, overwhelming fatigue could be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis. This type of fatigue doesn’t go away with rest and is often accompanied by a general feeling of malaise or unwellness. According to the National Library of Medicine, this fatigue can be one of the earliest indicators of RA, often appearing before any joint symptoms.
What makes this fatigue different? It’s not just tiredness after a long day. It’s a deep, bone-weary exhaustion that can affect your ability to function normally. This kind of fatigue may also come and go, sometimes lasting for weeks or even months, without any apparent reason.
Eye Problems
When you think about rheumatoid arthritis, eye problems probably aren’t the first thing that comes to mind. But for some people, eye issues can be one of the first signs of RA. Dry eyes, redness, and pain can all be linked to this autoimmune disease. In fact, the Cleveland Clinic explains that RA can lead to a condition known as Sjögren’s syndrome, which causes severe dryness of the eyes and mouth.
You might notice that your eyes feel gritty or like there’s something in them. Your vision may even become blurry. These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, as they can lead to more serious eye problems if left untreated. If you experience any persistent eye discomfort, it’s essential to speak to a physician who can assess whether RA could be the underlying cause.
Numbness or Tingling in the Hands and Feet
Numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation in your hands and feet might be something you’ve experienced occasionally. But if these sensations become frequent, it could be an indication of rheumatoid arthritis. This symptom is often caused by nerve compression due to joint swelling and inflammation, a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome when it affects the wrists.
Researchers found that RA can lead to inflammation in the blood vessels, which may reduce blood flow to the nerves, resulting in these unusual sensations. This could be a precursor to more significant joint issues. According to research, it’s important to consult your doctor if you’re experiencing these symptoms regularly, as they could indicate the early stages of RA.
Unexplained Weight Loss That’s Not Due to Diet or Exercise
Losing weight without trying can actually be a red flag for rheumatoid arthritis. When your immune system is constantly active, as it is in RA, it can cause your metabolism to speed up, thus leading to unintended weight loss.
Experts say that this weight loss is often accompanied by a loss of appetite, which can exacerbate the problem. If you’re shedding pounds without any changes to your diet or exercise routine, it’s time to make an appointment with a healthcare provider. According to a study published in 2019, unexplained weight loss can be one of the more insidious symptoms of RA, as it might indicate that your body is under significant stress due to the disease.
Morning Stiffness That Lasts More Than 30 Minutes Could Be a Warning Sign
Most people experience a bit of stiffness when they first wake up, but it usually fades after a few minutes of moving around. However, if you find that your stiffness lasts for more than 30 minutes, it could be an early sign of rheumatoid arthritis. Experts recommends paying close attention to how long morning stiffness lasts, as this can be a key indicator of RA.
In RA, morning stiffness is not just limited to the joints—it can affect the entire body. This prolonged stiffness is due to inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues, which can take a while to loosen up. The longer duration of stiffness is one of the distinctive features that differentiates RA from other forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, where stiffness typically eases up more quickly.
The Takeaway
Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex and often misunderstood condition, with symptoms that can extend far beyond joint pain and swelling. Persistent fatigue, eye problems, numbness or tingling, unexplained weight loss, and prolonged morning stiffness are all unusual signs that could indicate the presence of RA. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to talk to your physician.
