5 warning signs of autoimmune arthritis you shouldn't ignore

Autoimmune arthritis is a category of long-term conditions in which the immune system, which helps to defend us against infection, mistakenly assaults healthy tissue in joints. This is a misguided immune reaction that causes inflammation in the joints, cartilage damage, and erosion of the lining of the synovium—the protective layer of tissue that cushions and supports joints. The damage is permanent if untreated and results in pain, deformity, and loss of function. But if diagnosed and treated early, the disease can be stopped or slowed, much enhancing quality of life and averting complications such as surgery for joint replacement.

These five are the earliest signs of autoimmune arthritis that you cannot afford to ignore:

1. Joint pain and stiffness—Most commonly in the morning
One of the earliest and most frequent symptoms is stiffness in the joints, usually most prominent on awakening or after periods of rest. Although many individuals have occasional stiffness, autoimmune arthritis results in stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes and that gradually subsides with activity. It's an important distinction from age-related joint stiffness or mere overuse.

2. Swollen, tender, or warm joints
Autoimmune arthritis-induced inflammation can lead to swollen joints that feel warm to touch. This occurs when the lining of the joint becomes inflamed, thickened, and starts damaging cartilage. Although pain might not be severe, swelling or warmth in joints should never be dismissed, regardless of whether it occurs frequently or in many joints.

3. Unexplained fatigue and feeling of being unwell
Autoimmune arthritis does more than just play with the joints—it has the ability to affect your body as a whole. Individuals typically describe a persistent feeling of fatigue, exhaustion, or even poor overall health, even before joint pain gets worse. Fatigue is caused by long-term inflammation stimulated by an overactive immune system and can be an early sign of body-wide disease.

4. Trouble moving joints or doing routine activities
As the inflammation continues, it can limit joint motion. You might have difficulty with simple tasks such as holding things, opening jars, or buttoning a shirt. Loss of mobility and range of motion usually means joint damage has already started. Being able to catch it early will ensure joint function is maintained with proper treatment.

5. Problems in joints on both sides of the body
In contrast to osteoarthritis, which comes on one side of the body or one joint as a result of wear and tear, autoimmune arthritis tends to act on joints bilaterally. If you notice swelling, pain, or stiffness in both wrists, knees, or hands simultaneously, it's a good sign that an autoimmune condition may be on the way.

Why early action matters

Autoimmune arthritis comprises diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis—each of which, if not treated, can become increasingly worse. The diseases can also involve internal organs like the eyes, lungs, or skin. Many of these in India are late diagnoses, however, when joint damage is well established. Early intervention can avoid long-term disability.

If you see any of these symptoms, don't wait. See an expert. Autoimmune arthritis can be treated well—but only if you act early.

(Article courtesy: Dr Rajeev Ranjan Kumar, Rheumatologist , CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram)

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