Rheumatoid Arthritis or Rheumatoid Disease
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease. People usually start out having joint pain that is “symmetrical” meaning that if the joint in the ring finger of the right hand hurts, the same joint in the left hand ring finger is painful. Redness, warmth and swelling can occur in the tender joint. Fever, fatigue and appetite loss are part of the early signs of RA. Blood tests and X-rays are used to diagnose and rule other conditions. RA is a progressive disease which can impact organs like the heart and lungs. Early treatment can lower the risk of joint damage and slow down the disease process. Read more about rheumatoid disease here.
Thanks to Mount Sinai Hospital for sharing the infographic below.
Source: Mount Sinai Hospital