Rheumatoid arthritis develops when the body's immune system attacks fluid that lubricates linings of the joints. This can result in swelling and pain of the joints. It can eventually lead to deformity of the joints over time if not treated. The disease can also affect any part of your body.
Although the disease is more common in women than men, it can affect men and children. Some signs of rheumatoid arthritis can mimic other diseases, so it's important to have any unusual symptoms checked out by a doctor for immediate care.
Here are 12 symptoms men should never ignore:
1. The most common joints affected include the fingers, wrists, arms and legs.
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2. It is common for rheumatoid arthritis patients to experience symptoms in several joints at the same time.
3. Swelling may become painfully swollen and inflamed on the same joints in each side of the body.
4. Morning stiffness in the affected joints is often experienced. The stiffness can last for about 30 minutes, but can go on for hours for some people.
5. The joints may become warm, swollen and tender to the touch.
6. Affected hands may become reddened and puffy.
7. Rheumatoid nodules may develop in the form of bumps under the skin tissue on the arms.
8. Tiredness or fatigue affects many patients. Some people with rheumatoid arthritis feel tired most of the time.
9. Fever may also result for some patients because the disease affects organs in the body not directly associated with the joints.
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10. The effects of rheumatoid arthritis may also lead to weight loss.
11. Symptoms can occur during certain periods, then go through remission before returning again.
12. The fingers and toes are often affected first when the disease develops. As the disease progresses, larger joints are affected in the hands, wrists, elbows, hips, knees and the feet, as well as in the neck, shoulders and jaw.
This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.
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