What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation in joints.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
This condition can sometimes start in the hands and wrists, with symptoms of pain, swelling and stiffness. This is often worse first thing in the morning. The stiffness can last for longer than half an hour and tends not to ease with movement. Joints can feel warm, and they can sometimes be red.
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect both hands and wrists in the same way at the same time. The symptoms can start quite gradually. This is an uncommon condition in the general population. But if you do get any of these symptoms in your hands, especially if you also have an overall feeling of being unwell and very tired, see a doctor as soon as you can.
Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis
There are drugs that can treat the underlying cause of rheumatoid arthritis, and these can help prevent damage to your joints. The earlier treatment is started, the more effective it’s likely to be.
