Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the commonly used term for this autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. This causes inflammation that can affect multiple joints—and in some cases, other parts of the body. Unlike osteoarthritis, which typically affects a single joint due to cartilage wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis usually involves several joints at once. It’s more common in women, who make up around 70% of cases, though symptoms are similar across both sexes. (1)


What Are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Here are the most common signs and symptoms of RA: (2)(3)


1. Joint Pain

Persistent joint pain, swelling, and inflammation lasting 6 weeks or more, often affecting more than one joint.


2. Joint Stiffness

Morning stiffness, or stiffness after periods of inactivity, lasting more than 30 minutes.


3. Symmetrical Joint Involvement:

RA usually affects the same joints on both sides of the body. For example, if the right hand is inflamed, the left hand might also be affected—though the pain may differ in intensity.



4. Early Symptoms

Some early signs of RA can appear before joint pain or stiffness, such as:

  • Fatigue
  • Muscle aches
  • Low-grade fever
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands


5. Other Systemic Symptoms

Unlike other forms of arthritis, RA may affect organs and systems beyond the joints if left untreated, leading to complications like:


  • Eyes: Dryness, pain, redness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision
  • Mouth: Dry mouth and gum inflammation
  • Skin: Rheumatoid nodules—small, painless lumps under the skin, especially over bony areas
  • Lungs: Lung inflammation, causing shortness of breath
  • Heart: Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes
  • Blood vessels: Vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels)
  • Blood: Anemia


Which Joints Are Affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis?

RA often begins in the small joints of the hands and feet—like the base and middle finger joints—but can affect any joint. (3)


The most commonly affected joints include:

  • Hands: Painful movement, gradual loss of strength, deformities, and carpal tunnel syndrome due to pressure on the main wrist nerve
  • Wrists: Difficulty bending the wrist backward
  • Elbows: Swelling that presses on nerves, causing tingling in the fingers
  • Feet: Pain when standing or walking, especially at the base of the toes, and sometimes heel pain
  • Shoulders: Typically affected in later stages, causing limited mobility
  • Knees: Difficulty bending or moving; may develop a fluid-filled Baker’s cyst behind the knee
  • Hips: Usually involved in late stages, causing pain during movement or walking


How Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Progress?

RA progression varies from person to person. Some people develop symptoms gradually, while others may experience a sudden flare-up over just a few days.


Symptoms can come and go, with periods of remission and flare-ups. In some cases, RA may last a year or two and resolve without causing permanent joint damage. Others may experience repeated flare-ups and worsening inflammation.


Fortunately, treatment options continue to improve. With early diagnosis and effective therapy, flare-ups may become less frequent and less severe, allowing long periods of remission—sometimes lasting months or even years. (4)


How Long Do Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms Last?

The duration of RA flares is hard to predict. Mild flare-ups may last a few days and resolve on their own, while more severe episodes can persist for months or even years. (5)


In general, flares triggered by known factors like intense exercise or stress tend to be shorter than spontaneous flares without a clear cause. (5)


What Can I Do to Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis?




1. Consult a Specialist

If you’re experiencing RA symptoms, see a rheumatologist as soon as possible. Book your appointment now with one of Qatar’s top rheumatology departments at Al-Ahli Hospital. We’ll accurately diagnose your condition and create a personalized treatment plan.




2. Learn About RA

Get to know your condition and take part in your treatment process. Ask your doctor any questions you may have and keep open communication regarding any changes in your symptoms.


3. Learn to Manage Flare-Ups

RA symptoms may worsen without clear cause—or due to stress, infections, etc. Inform your doctor during a flare so your treatment plan can be reviewed. Here are some tips to help manage flare-ups:


  • Stick to your medications: Take your prescribed medications regularly.
  • Try gentle exercise: Movement can help relieve stiffness and improve mobility, even if it feels slightly uncomfortable at first. Break up long periods of rest with light movement.
  • Use heat: Take a warm bath or apply a heating pad (wrapped in a towel) to painful joints. Make sure the temperature is safe and tolerable.
  • Use cold therapy: Applying cold compresses or a towel-wrapped ice pack can help relieve pain. Apply for up to 20–30 minutes, but check your skin every 5 minutes—if it turns red or light pink, stop the treatment. (4)



4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Stay active, eat a balanced diet, quit smoking, and reduce stress to support your overall well-being.


References