Which statement describes a major symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, and what is a common immediate relief?

Which statement describes a major symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, and what is a common immediate relief?

• A. Morning stiffness; warm shower or bath
• B. Intermittent fever; cold compress
• C. Joint swelling; ice application
• D. Muscle weakness; rest and immobilization

Answer: (A)

Morning stiffness is a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory process in the joints that often feels worst after a period of inactivity. A warm shower or bath provides immediate relief because heat increases blood flow, relaxes surrounding tissues, and helps the joint move more freely, reducing stiffness right away. The other options don’t fit as well: intermittent fever isn’t the defining symptom of RA, and cold helps numb or reduce swelling rather than relieve stiffness; swelling can be present but ice is not the usual immediate relief for stiffness; and rest with immobilization can actually worsen stiffness and ROM over time.

Morning stiffness is a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis, an inflammatory process in the joints that often feels worst after a period of inactivity. A warm shower or bath provides immediate relief because heat increases blood flow, relaxes surrounding tissues, and helps the joint move more freely, reducing stiffness right away. The other options don’t fit as well: intermittent fever isn’t the defining symptom of RA, and cold helps numb or reduce swelling rather than relieve stiffness; swelling can be present but ice is not the usual immediate relief for stiffness; and rest with immobilization can actually worsen stiffness and ROM over time.