RA In America – Symptoms by the Numbers

The RA diagnosis and disease management journey can often feel overwhelming, especially when the number of your symptoms increases over time. Are you curious to know how your experience compares to that of others in the community? Here are some results from our second RA In America Survey:

9.2

The average number of significant initial symptoms experienced by people diagnosed with RA. The most common first symptoms include:

• Hand and wrist pain – 73 percent of respondents
• Fatigue – 59 percent of respondents
• General stiffness or soreness – 58 percent of respondents

47 percent

Percentage of those surveyed who started experiencing RA symptoms before turning 35. Notably, 11 percent of respondents said they started experiencing symptoms before reaching adulthood.

3,561

Number of people with RA who completed the second RA In America Survey, which gathered information about their symptoms and diagnosis journey, as well as their quality of life and treatment experience.

5 or more

Receiving an RA diagnosis can be a long journey. In fact, 43 percent of survey respondents said they had 5 or more office visits with a healthcare professional regarding their RA symptoms before receiving a diagnosis. Only 14 percent of respondents were diagnosed within a single office visit.

58 percent

Percentage of respondents who are in full agreement with their healthcare professional as to the severity of their RA and RA symptoms. Notably, only 6 percent are in disagreement.

13.9

The average number of symptoms experienced most frequently by those surveyed. Similar to initial symptoms, the most experienced symptoms include:

• Hand and wrist pain  – 86 percent
• Fatigue – 80 percent
• General stiffness or soreness – 75 percent

75 percent

Percentage of those surveyed who experience daily fatigue due to their RA. Naps/rest and caffeine are the most common fatigue management techniques.

More than 50 percent

Over half of the respondents said they were currently in a flare when completing the survey. Only 5 percent had not had a flare within the past 6 months. Plus, 79 percent of those surveyed are apt to experience more flares during certain weather conditions, with precipitation being with most impactful weather condition for those who do.

Less than 6 months

The longest period of time that most respondents have gone into remission, as shared by 40 percent of the 34 percent who experienced remission.

RA symptoms can vary in terms of frequency and severity, based on the way the condition unfolds. Hearing about others' experiences via our RA In America Survey – specifically as they related to symptoms – can help you feel like you're not alone.

The second RA In America Survey was conducted online in the fall of 2014. The survey was completed by 3,561 people living with RA.