Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the conditions where every month matters. Left untreated, the inflammation can quietly damage joints. Treated early and to target, most of my patients get their lives back. My job is to make the diagnosis quickly, explain it clearly, and choose the right treatment for you.
What rheumatoid arthritis is
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints. It typically causes symmetrical pain, swelling and stiffness in the small joints of the hands and feet, and can affect larger joints too. If left untreated it can damage joints and also affect the eyes, lungs and blood vessels.
Symptoms to look out for
Pain and swelling in the small joints of the hands and feet, on both sides
Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
Difficulty making a fist, opening jars or gripping the steering wheel
Fatigue that feels out of proportion to what you have done
Low grade fever or feeling generally unwell
Joint symptoms that have been building over weeks to a few months
Family history of rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions
Why this matters to a rheumatologist
As a rheumatologist, I treat rheumatoid arthritis as a time sensitive diagnosis. The first months are the most important, because starting disease modifying medication early strongly changes the long term outcome. I use a careful examination, blood tests (rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, ESR, CRP), and often ultrasound of the hands and feet to detect inflammation that cannot always be seen with the naked eye.
Signs I would like you to seek care for
For emergency symptoms please seek urgent or emergency care first rather than waiting for a WhatsApp reply.
Joint swelling that is not settling after 2 to 6 weeks
Fever with joint swelling, which may indicate infection
Chest pain, shortness of breath, or a new persistent cough
Red painful eye or blurred vision
Numbness, weakness or loss of hand function
A sudden severe flare that is not responding to your usual treatment
What a specialist review looks like
In clinic I confirm the diagnosis, explain rheumatoid arthritis in plain language, and discuss a treatment plan tailored to you. We usually start with a disease modifying medication such as methotrexate, often alongside a short course of steroids to settle inflammation quickly. If disease activity is not controlled we escalate to combination therapy or a biologic or targeted therapy. I monitor closely so we can adjust before damage occurs.
Questions my patients often ask me
Speak with me
If you have persistent joint swelling and stiffness, especially in the small joints of your hands and feet, please seek specialist care. Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition where early treatment truly changes the story.
Other conditions I treat
This page is for general education only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.