What it is
Symptoms often come and go in flare-ups. Without treatment, the joints can become damaged.
Early treatment with disease-modifying medicines, such as methotrexate or biological treatments, can control it. Physiotherapy, occupational therapy and regular blood tests are part of care.
Common signs
- Painful, swollen joints
- Stiffness, especially in the morning, lasting more than 30 minutes
- Joints affected on both sides of the body
- Tiredness
- A high temperature or feeling unwell
- Firm lumps under the skin (nodules)
How it is usually diagnosed
- Examination of the joints
- Blood tests for inflammation, rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies
- X-rays or ultrasound
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Rheumatology letters
- Blood test results, including monitoring for medicines
- X-ray and ultrasound reports
- Medicine lists
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which treatment do you recommend first?
- How often will I need blood tests?
- What should I do during a flare-up?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A fever, or signs of a serious infection, while on immune-suppressing medicine: get urgent help the same day
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.