Millions of individuals throughout the world suffer from the crippling ailment known as arthritis. Early detection is crucial in managing symptoms and slowing down its progression. Here, we outline 11 early signs of arthritis you should never ignore to safeguard your joint health and overall well-being.
1. Persistent Joint Pain
Joint pain is one of the most prominent early signs of arthritis. This discomfort may manifest as a dull ache or sharp pain and often worsens after physical activity or during periods of inactivity. If you experience ongoing pain in one or multiple joints, consult a healthcare professional promptly.
2. Morning Stiffness
Waking up with stiff joints is a common indicator of arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. While stiffness that lasts for a few minutes is normal, prolonged stiffness lasting over an hour could signal an underlying issue. Taking note of the duration and frequency of stiffness can help in early diagnosis.
3. Swelling Around the Joints
Inflammation in the joints can cause noticeable swelling, redness, and warmth. This symptom might come and go, but recurring swelling should not be overlooked. Swelling is often a sign of osteoarthritis or inflammatory types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis.