Arthritis is a common condition that causes discomfort, stiffness, and swelling in the joints—where two bones meet. Many people experience flares, when symptoms worsen, and remission, when symptoms improve. With over 100 types of arthritis, symptoms can vary based on the specific condition.
The Most Common Symptoms of Arthritis
Most types of arthritis share a set of general symptoms, including:
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Joint pain
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Swelling
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Stiffness
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Redness
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Warmth in the joint
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Limited ability to move the joint
How Do Arthritis Symptoms Vary by Type?
Although joint pain and stiffness are common across all types, each form of arthritis has distinct features and affects different areas of the body.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) usually impacts the hands, hips, and knees. Its symptoms may include:
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Pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after long periods of sitting
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Loss of movement
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Instability while walking
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Swelling, particularly around the knees
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Cysts behind the knee due to joint fluid buildup
OA pain typically improves with light movement and often fades within 30 minutes of activity.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy joint tissues. It typically affects joints on both sides of the body and may cause:
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Pain at rest and during movement
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Stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes, especially in the morning
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Joints that are warm, tender, or swollen, often in the hands, wrists, and feet
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Fever, fatigue, and appetite loss
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Nodules (firm lumps) near joints
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In severe cases, RA may also damage other organs like the lungs, eyes, and nerves
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a form of arthritis that affects both the joints and skin. It commonly involves:
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Pain and swelling in the hands, feet, wrists, elbows, and spine
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Psoriasis plaques—raised, red, scaly patches of skin, often on the elbows or knees
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Nail changes, like pitting or separation from the nail bed
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Systemic symptoms such as fatigue, sleep issues, eye swelling, and even hypertension or bowel movement changes
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) primarily affects the spine, but may also involve the shoulders, knees, hands, and feet. Key symptoms include:
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Pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning
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Limited spinal mobility and a hunched posture in severe cases
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Trouble breathing due to spinal curvature
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Depression, anxiety, and fatigue
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In rare cases, osteoporosis or swollen fingers
Gout
Gout occurs when uric acid crystals build up in joints, causing sudden, intense inflammation. It's most common in the big toe, but can also affect the ankle, foot, or knee.
Symptoms include:
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Severe pain, redness, and swelling in the affected area
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Episodes that come on suddenly and can last several days
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Tophi—hard uric acid deposits under the skin, often near fingers or ears
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Flares may be triggered by alcohol, red meat, or seafood
Is Arthritis Contagious?
No, arthritis is not contagious. It typically develops from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. However, certain infections can trigger reactive arthritis, a specific type that appears after an infection but cannot be transmitted to others.
When To See a Healthcare Provider
Seek medical advice if you have ongoing or worsening joint symptoms. You should see a provider immediately if you experience:
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Persistent joint or back pain
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Severe swelling or redness
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Fever, fatigue, or rash
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Unexplained weight loss
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Difficulty moving a joint
In serious cases, infections can lead to joint inflammation or even sepsis. Emergency care is needed if you're unable to bear weight on a limb, have sudden fever, or experience limited mobility after infection.
A Quick Review
Arthritis causes inflammation that results in pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. Each type has unique symptoms, and severity can range from mild discomfort to disabling pain. Early recognition and treatment are key to managing arthritis and maintaining quality of life.
