What is a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis?

A common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is pain and swelling in the joints. This autoimmune condition primarily affects the synovial tissues, leading to inflammation, which manifests as swelling and pain in the affected joints. Additionally, this inflammation can result in stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, and can significantly impact joint function and mobility.

While increased flexibility might seem beneficial, rheumatoid arthritis typically leads to reduced range of motion due to pain and swelling, rather than increased flexibility. Hardening of tendons is not a characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis; it tends to involve inflammation of the joint lining rather than affecting tendons directly. Decreased bone strength also does not directly describe a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis; rather, it is a result of prolonged inflammation and immobilization that can occur over time as the disease advances and leads to joint damage. Thus, the experience of pain and swelling in the joints is a hallmark of this condition.