Arthritis is often thought of as a condition that comes with ageing, but it can affect people of all ages, including children and young adults. While occasional aches and pains in the joints can be normal, persistent or worsening discomfort may be a sign that it’s time to consult a specialist.
But how do you know when to see an arthritis specialist, also known as a rheumatologist? Let’s break it down into clear signs that shouldn’t be ignored, and why early intervention matters.
1. Persistent Joint Pain That Won’t Go Away
Everyone experiences joint pain occasionally, whether from overexertion or a minor injury. However, if joint pain persists for weeks or months without improvement, it could indicate a more serious underlying condition like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout.
When to Act:
- The pain disrupts your daily activities.
- Over-the-counter pain relief isn’t effective.
- The pain is accompanied by swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint.
A rheumatologist can help identify the root cause and create a personalised treatment plan to manage your symptoms effectively.
2. Morning Stiffness That Lasts More Than an Hour
Feeling stiff in the morning is common, especially as we age, but stiffness lasting more than an hour can be a red flag for inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.
Why It Matters:
Morning stiffness is often a sign of joint inflammation, which can worsen without treatment and lead to permanent joint damage.
3. Swollen or Tender Joints
Swelling or tenderness in the joints is another hallmark symptom of arthritis. This is particularly common in autoimmune types of arthritis, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.
When to Be Concerned:
- Swelling occurs regularly or without an obvious cause.
- Joints feel tender to the touch, even with light pressure.
Seeing a specialist early can help prevent further inflammation and joint deterioration.
4. Reduced Range of Motion
If you’re finding it harder to bend, straighten, or move your joints, it might indicate joint damage or inflammation. Over time, untreated arthritis can lead to stiffness that permanently limits mobility.
Key Signs:
- Difficulty performing simple tasks like gripping, turning a doorknob, or climbing stairs.
- Experiencing a noticeable decrease in flexibility over weeks or months.
A rheumatologist can recommend therapies to help preserve or restore joint function.
5. Family History of Arthritis
If arthritis runs in your family, you might have a higher risk of developing certain types, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Knowing your genetic predisposition can help you stay proactive about your joint health.
Why See a Specialist?
Early screenings and preventive strategies can help you manage your risk effectively, even before symptoms appear.
6. Fatigue, Fever, or Other Systemic Symptoms
Arthritis isn’t always limited to joint pain. Autoimmune forms of arthritis, such as lupus or psoriatic arthritis, can cause whole-body symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Skin rashes or dryness
- Eye redness or discomfort
These systemic symptoms indicate that the immune system is involved and requires specialised care.
7. Symptoms That Worsen Over Time
Arthritis symptoms that gradually worsen—whether it’s increasing pain, swelling, or stiffness—shouldn’t be ignored. Early intervention can slow or even halt the progression of certain types of arthritis.
Why It’s Important:
Delaying treatment could lead to irreversible joint damage, making it harder to manage pain and mobility later on.
8. Difficulty Performing Daily Activities
When arthritis starts to affect your ability to carry out routine tasks—like brushing your teeth, cooking, or walking—it’s time to seek help. This can indicate advanced joint damage or severe inflammation requiring immediate attention.
Why Early Intervention Is Key
Arthritis is a progressive condition, meaning it can worsen over time if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to:
- Preserve joint function
- Prevent long-term complications
- Improve your overall quality of life
At Aaria Rheumatology, Dr Anindita Santosa specialises in diagnosing and managing all types of arthritis, from common forms like osteoarthritis to complex autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
What to Expect When Visiting a Specialist
When you consult a rheumatologist, they’ll:
- Take a detailed medical history.
- Perform a physical examination of your joints.
- Recommend imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.
- Conduct blood tests to check for markers of inflammation or autoimmune activity.
Based on your diagnosis, they’ll work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and ongoing monitoring.
Book Your Appointment Now!
Recognising the early signs of arthritis and seeking help from a specialist can make all the difference in managing your condition effectively. If you’re experiencing persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist today.
At Aaria Rheumatology, we’re committed to helping you live a pain-free, active life. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your journey to better joint health.
