What Are the Symptoms of Rheumatism and Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatic diseases and rheumatoid arthritis are two common autoimmune disorders that primarily affect the joints and surrounding tissues. Rheumatism mainly refers to muscle pain, joint pain, joint swelling or numbness, and limited joint mobility caused by external pathogens such as wind, cold, dampness, and heat. It may be associated with infection by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus and may present with cardiac symptoms such as myocarditis, endocarditis, and pericarditis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by involvement of multiple joints, especially symmetric swelling and pain in the small joints of the hands, wrists, and feet. Morning stiffness is commonly present and may last more than one hour. As the disease progresses, joint function gradually deteriorates, potentially leading to joint deformities. Additionally, patients with rheumatoid arthritis may develop extra-articular manifestations such as rheumatoid nodules, ocular inflammation, and pulmonary complications.

In daily life, patients should maintain healthy lifestyle habits, pay attention to diet, and engage in regular physical activity, all of which can help prevent disease onset. Individuals suffering from rheumatism or rheumatoid arthritis should seek medical attention promptly.