The new numbers are out. “We know by statistics that 80% of patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis will be disabled 20 years later,” says Dr. Juan Bustillo, a rheumatologist with Lee Physician Group.

It’s not just the body that will feel the impact. “We also know that 80% of the patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis will not be at their same job capabilities a year later,” adds Dr. Bustillo.

Arthritis can develop in some people as young as 20 and in some cases, the symptoms are there long before they are recognized. “Most patients do develop systemic problems before the arthritis or joint symptoms begin. Sudden fatigue, unexplained fevers, low grade temperatures, weight loss, decrease appetite. Those symptoms may occur months before the joints are affected,” warns Dr. Bustillo.

There is no cure for arthritis. Consulting your doctor and getting on top of your symptoms early is the best solution. “Rheumatology has come a long way in the last 20 years with new treatments that can slow down the progression of the disease and by doing that it can certainly impact the disability the disease can cause,” explains Dr. Bustillo.

The earlier you act, the better your chances of not becoming a statistic.