Affected Joints

• Rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint, but it most commonly begins with the joints in the wrists, hands and fingers. Later the disease can move on to affect the joints of the elbows, shoulders, hips and knees. Sometimes the neck and jaw are also affected. Typically, joints are affected evenly on both sides of the body.
  
  

Joint Symptoms

• Joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis may appear swollen and red. They may feel warm and tender to the touch. Also, the joints may feel stiff, especially first thing in the morning and after sitting for a long time.
  
  

Flulike Symptoms

• Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis may feel as though they have perpetual flu symptoms. They may feel tired, achy and weak. They may also have a low-grade fever.
  
  

Other Symptoms

• Rheumatoid arthritis may cause lumps of body tissue to form under the skin. These lumps most often form on the elbows.
  
  Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis may also experience poor appetite, depression and anemia. Some may also notice that their hands and feet are cold and sweaty.
  
  

Related Disorders

• Some people with rheumatoid arthritis may develop other associated conditions. One condition in particular is Sjogren's syndrome, which affects the glands near the mouth and eyes. This condition causes a decrease in the production of saliva and tears.