What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

[KeithD]

The symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) may vary from person to person but typically include:

1. Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, especially in the hands and feet, that lasts for more than an hour in the morning or after periods of inactivity
   
2. Warmth and redness over the affected joint
   
3. Loss of joint function and mobility
   
4. Fatigue and weakness
   
5. Low-grade fever
   
6. Dry mouth and eyes
   
7. Nodules, or lumps, under the skin near the joints
   

In some cases, RA may also affect other organs and systems, such as the skin, eyes, lungs, and heart, leading to additional symptoms. The severity and progression of RA can vary greatly, but early diagnosis and treatment are important to help slow the progression of joint damage and preserve joint function.