8. Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain 

RA attacks more than joint tissues; it also can attack the blood vessels and heart muscles. In fact, people with RA are at an increased risk of heart attack and heart failure due to their RA-weakened cardiovascular system. 

Shortness of breath or chest pains should not be ignored, even if there is no prior history of heart or lung problems. RA weakens the immune system, and it may make a person more prone to lung infections, interstitial lung diseases and fluid development around the lungs. 

7. Joint Pain 

RA most commonly attacks the joints, causing painful swelling. When the tissues on and around the joints become inflamed, the pressure can lead to debilitating pain. The pain generally increases with movement or pressure and often persists even during rest.