Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, degenerative condition and one of the most common autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. It affects joints and sometimes organs, causing swelling, stiffness, and pain. As the condition does not have a permanent cure at the moment, early diagnosis is crucial for timely management of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. So here are some of the early signs of the condition that should prompt one to seek a diagnosis:

1. Joint pain
The tissues lining the joints produce synovial fluid to keep them flexible and clean. However, with rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system malfunctions and attacks healthy tissues in the joints, causing inflammation, thickening of the synovium membrane, and excess production of the synovial fluid. This can cause pain and stiffness in the joints. While one can experience mild pain after an exhausting day, intense physical activity, or a viral infection, this usually goes away with adequate rest. However, the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis can be throbbing or aching and flare up often, so it could develop and then disappear for a few days. The pain here may also worsen in the morning or after a period of inactivity. If left untreated, the condition can eventually damage the bones and cartilage, leading to movement issues.

2. Stiff joints
The inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis can stiffen the joints. So, when affected by the condition, one may not be able to move their fingers, toes, or elbows freely and may require more effort than usual in the process. The stiffness worsens in the morning and can become more severe over time.

3. Swelling and warmth
As the condition causes inflammation in the synovial tissue, the affected joints begin to swell. One may also notice that the affected areas are tender to the touch. The swelling will be subtle initially and become more visible as the condition progresses. Further, the joints may feel warm to the touch compared to other parts of the body. This is also one of the early signs, often developing before visible redness in the affected joints.

4. Tingling or numbness
Inflammation in the joints can result in nerve compression, causing some loss of sensation as an early sign of rheumatoid arthritis. This can lead to a tingling sensation or numbness in the affected areas.

5. Fatigue
Before one experiences pain and swelling, they may begin feeling extremely tired without excessive exertion. This change in energy levels could be a result of the body’s reaction to the inflammation in the joints. So, if the fatigue persists, one should consult a doctor to determine the precise cause.

6. Low-grade fever
Inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis can cause a low-grade fever along with pain and swelling in joints. If one notices a slightly raised temperature accompanied by other warning signs of the condition, they should get it examined. However, sometimes, the fever can precede other symptoms.

While rheumatoid arthritis typically affects areas such as the hands, elbows, feet, knees, wrists, and ankles, it can also affect vital organs over time. So, upon noticing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, one should seek medical intervention to prevent further complications.