Could It Be Arthritis? 5 Common Yet Overlooked Symptoms

Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints. This can cause pain, swelling and tenderness. About 350 million people worldwide suffer from arthritis. About 40 million of those people are Americans. Of those affected, over half are women.

Arthritis is commonly misconstrued as only affecting the aging or elderly. However, more than half of those with arthritis are under the age of 65. With these staggering numbers, you might be wondering what the symptoms of arthritis are. You may wonder if you have it. Check out these 5 common yet overlooked symptoms of arthritis.

Painful swelling and inflammation

Swelling and inflammation is worse in the mornings when you wake up. The pain is typically found in the same joints on both sides of your body.

Stiffness

With arthritis, joint stiffness usually happens gradually. This is why it’s important to seek treatment as soon as you start seeing symptoms to avoid losing further mobility.

Tenderness

Joints can become not only sore and swollen, but also tender to even the gentlest of touches. This can be particularly true of gout, which is a specific type of arthritis.

Fever

Fever is often a sign of infection somewhere in the body. It is important that you call your doctor immediately if you experience fever along with your joint pain.

Rash

Typically associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, blotchy rashes can be an early symptom. This rash is usually found on the arms and legs. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis also has unique symptoms of loss of appetite, weight loss, and anemia.

If you take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain medications for joint pain or if you have any of the following symptoms associated with your joint pain, consider seeking medical attention.

• Rapid swelling
• Immobility of joint
• Loss of function
• Unable to exercise without pain
• Severe pain

If you are in pain or have limited function regarding a specific musculoskeletal structure, Progressive Rehabilitation Medicine’s specialty training can help evaluate, diagnose and treat the condition. We are experienced in helping patients maximize their capabilities while assisting patients adapt and improve their weaknesses. Call to book an appointment with Progressive Rehabilitation Medicine today at (319) 774-8143.