Rheumatoid arthritis can cause various symptoms such as inflammation, swelling of the joints and pain. The symptoms can be mild to severe. In its most severe form, it can be extremely debilitating and can have devastating consequences on the lives of sufferers. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but early diagnosis and treatment are often vital to achieve the best possible outcome. It is important for anyone who believes that they may be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis to go to their GP as soon as possible. I have acted for clients who have unfortunately not been diagnosed or referred to a specialist early enough despite having attended their GP with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Sometimes there may be delays of many years which usually means an increased chance of long term pain and joint damage. The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis often develop over many weeks or so. Symptoms you may have could include:-
- A feeling of stiffness in the hands, wrists or soles of the feet. This may often come on in the morning and become easier later on in the day
- Development of pain and swelling in one or more joints.
- Small painless lumps can occur in about 1 in 4 cases. These are often on the skin over the elbows and forearms.
- Tiredness and anaemia which are common.
A responsible GP would often consider a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and request a blood test, x-ray and/or refer to a rheumatologist.
If symptoms are left undiagnosed there is potential for serious damage. Untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint damage which can be severe and disability may result. People may be left with severe ongoing pain affecting their ability to work, negotiate stairs and carry out day to day tasks around their home. They may suffer destruction of joints requiring joint replacement surgery which could have been avoided with earlier treatment.
If you believe that you may have had a delay in diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis we can discuss this with you. Please call 0114 218 4129.
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