Rheumatoid arthritis causes chronic inflammation of joints, which results in joint pains, inflammation and bone deformation. It usually starts slowly with pain in some parts of the body that can come and go in the beginning and then spread within weeks or months. It is better in this day and age to always be aware of your health problems and not to ignore slightest of joint pains. The symptoms can vary from one person to another.

• Joint pains: This is the first sign of rheumatoid arthritis symptom. Usually, the pains occur in knees, hips, wrist, neck, and ankle, and they come in a systemic form. If that happens, do get yourself checked with a doctor, since rheumatoid arthritis has specific diagnostic tests. If they occur in combination with other symptoms, then it is wise to get yourself checked.
• Fatigue: Arthritis attacks other parts of our body as well and not just the joints. It can cause fatigue that can be accompanied by fever, or the general feeling of depression.
• Inflammation: Sometimes rheumatoid arthritis symptoms show chronic flare up and can lead to swollen joints and inflammation. They are also symptomatic of lupus, so do consult your doctor before getting yourself treated for rheumatoid arthritis.
• Joint stiffness: People who have rheumatoid arthritis often wake-up early in the morning complaining of stiff joints and restricted movement. The mobility is back slowly and with little joint movements .
• Joint redness: Sometimes the troubled area also experiences redness and feels warm to the touch. However, make sure the redness is not due to reasons such as a bruise or a scrape of the skin.
• Bone deformation: Arthritis also attacks the bones and makes them crooked and stiff. Look out for signs of any subtle changes in your joints and test them for pain levels.

If rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are caught on early, they can be treated for relief from joint pains and can make you get back to your usual routine.