Unexplained Fatigue
Fatigue is often overlooked because it does not seem like a joint symptom.
But inflammatory forms of arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, can cause unusual tiredness or low energy. NIAMS lists fatigue among the common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, along with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Fatigue can also be caused by:
* Poor sleep
* Anemia
* Thyroid problems
* Infection
* Depression
* Medication side effects
So fatigue alone is not evidence of arthritis. It becomes more informative when it appears alongside persistent joint symptoms.
## Arthritis Is Not Just One Condition
Different forms