If She Had Rheumatoid Arthritis, Would You See it in Her Eyes?
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My aunt, now in her mid-70s, has been struggling with a disease that more commonly affects women than men and that afflicts roughly 1.3 million people in the U.S. each day. For years, I have seen how the pain and stiffness have increasingly slowed her down, as this chronic autoimmune disease continually brings inflammation to her joints. I am amazed at her continued perseverance, yet am disturbed by how much it can seem to compromise one’s lifestyle if not treated properly.
If you were affected by rheumatoid arthritis, would you know what to look for in terms of symptoms? Surprisingly, some of the most notable symptoms of this disease may not seem as obvious to the condition as one might think.
Rheumatoid arthritis can present in the form of flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, overall weakness, fever, and diminished appetite. While these symptoms may be indicative of a viral or bacterial infection, if they are recurrent or last for an appreciable amount of time, you should seek the advice of a doctor to determine their actual cause.
Joint symptoms, such as pain, tenderness, or stiffness, are most commonly associated with rheumatoid arthritis. These are most prevalent in the morning upon waking or after sitting for extended periods of time. Frequently, the joints will appear swollen or even red and inflamed.
Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the skin and the eyes. Because this disease is systemic in nature, symptoms can arise anywhere in the body. Its wrath is not just limited to the joints. Some people may notice that their complexion has become pale, and others may develop nodules, which are typically seen around the elbow joints. These small, painless masses, known as rheumatoid nodules, can indicate the severity of the disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause the eyes to become itchy, dry, or red. A discharge may occur and they may produce a burning sensation. Additionally, dry eyes, when paired with a dry mouth, can be a result of Sjogren’s syndrome, which causes a decrease in the production of tears and saliva. If such symptoms persist, be sure to consult your physician.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
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