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+-- Forum: Types of Arthritis (https://arthritisforum.org/Forum-Types-of-Arthritis)
+--- Forum: Rheumatoid Arthritis (https://arthritisforum.org/Forum-Rheumatoid-Arthritis)
+--- Thread: Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in hands (/Thread-Rheumatoid-arthritis-symptoms-in-hands)
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms in hands - KeithD - 11-02-2023
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can cause a number of symptoms in the hands, including:
- Pain and swelling: People with RA may experience pain, swelling, and warmth in the joints of their hands and fingers.
- Stiffness: Stiffness in the hands, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, is a common symptom of RA.
- Deformities: Over time, RA can cause deformities in the hands, such as nodules or bony protuberances, and the fingers may become curled or misaligned.
- Loss of function: People with RA may experience decreased hand strength and dexterity, making it difficult to perform daily activities such as buttoning clothes or opening jars.
- Numbness and tingling: Inflammation in the hands can compress nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, and a loss of sensation.
- Synovitis: RA can cause inflammation of the synovium, the membrane that lines the joints, leading to tenderness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area.
- Ulnar deviation: This is a common deformity in RA where the fingers deviate towards the little finger, resulting in a "claw-like" appearance.
It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms in your hands, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent joint damage and maintain hand function.