Rheumatoid arthritis warning - why you should never ignore this painful skin symptom

Thu Oct 18, 2018 5:03 am

RHEUMATOID arthritis symptoms include joint pain and inflammation. But the condition, which affects about 10 million people in the UK, could also cause this painful sign on your skin - are you at risk?

Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common type of arthritis to be diagnosed in the UK.
It’s an autoimmune condition, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints.
It can leave the joints feeling sore and inflamed, and could even damage the surrounding cartilage or tendons.
You could be at risk of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms if you find yourself bruising easily.
People that easily bruise could be at risk of rheumatoid arthritis, or its medications, warned the Arthritis Foundation.
It’s caused by a low platelet count, which can leave patients bruised for even the slightest knock.
The low lately count could even cause some patients’ gums to start bleeding for no obvious reason, it said.
“Living day to day with arthritis, you’ve probably figured out when to wait out pain and when to call the doctor about it,” said the Arthritis Foundation.
“But what if you experience something completely different – you’re short of breath, the slightest bump leaves a bruise or you’re shedding pounds without trying?
“Believe it or not, these and many more symptoms that don’t affect your joints can be related to your arthritis.
If gently bumping into a table corner leaves a substantial bruise, your arthritis or the medications you take for it may be to blame.
“Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can lead to a low platelet count, which can cause bruising for no apparent reason and bleeding from the gums.”
You could also be at risk of rheumatoid arthritis if you often feel fatigued, the Arthritis Foundation added.
Being more tired than normal could be a sign of increased inflammatory disease activity, which can be caused by rheumatoid arthritis, it said.
Although most people feel tired now and again, speak to a doctor if the fatigue is persistent, and goes on for more than a week.
The most common rheumatoid arthritis symptoms include joint pain, swelling and stiffness, said the NHS.
Most symptoms develop gradually, over a period of several weeks. But, they can come and go, and may change from person to person.
The condition can be difficult to diagnose, because there are a number of conditions that cause joint stiffness and inflammation.
But, speak to a GP if you have the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Patients may need long-term treatment to reduce symptoms and prevent joint damage.