7 Signs of Arthritis You Shouldn’t Ignore
Arthritis isn’t one single disease—there are many types, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The symptoms can overlap with other conditions, so persistent joint symptoms shouldn’t simply be dismissed as “getting older.”
1. Persistent joint pain
Pain that keeps returning or doesn’t improve—especially in the knees, hips, hands, feet, or wrists—deserves attention.
2. Ongoing stiffness
Stiffness after resting or upon waking can be a sign of arthritis. Morning stiffness lasting more than about 30 minutes is particularly worth discussing with a healthcare professional because it can point toward inflammatory arthritis.
3. Swollen joints
Persistent swelling may indicate inflammation inside or around a joint. Rheumatoid arthritis, for example, commonly causes swollen, warm and tender joints.
4. Warmth or redness around a joint
A hot, red, swollen joint can occur with inflammatory arthritis or gout—but it can also indicate a joint infection, so sudden severe symptoms shouldn’t be ignored.
5. Reduced range of motion
Difficulty bending your fingers, climbing stairs, walking, opening jars, or moving a joint normally can occur as arthritis progresses.
6. Grinding, clicking, or grating sensations
A grating or crackling sensation (crepitus) during movement can occur with osteoarthritis. By itself, however, it doesn’t prove that you have arthritis.
7. Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
These symptoms are particularly important when they occur alongside joint swelling and prolonged stiffness. They can occur with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
🚨 When to get urgent help
Seek urgent medical attention for a suddenly very painful, swollen, hot joint, especially if you also have a fever or feel shivery or unwell. A joint infection needs prompt treatment.
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