Rheumatology in Lagos
Rheumatoid Arthritis
The signs, what causes it, and treatment in Lagos from ₦100,000, with the full price shown before you book or pay.
Signs to look for
Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Pain, swelling and warmth in the small joints of the fingers, wrists or feet
- The same joints affected on both sides of the body
- Stiffness in the morning that takes more than half an hour to ease
- Difficulty making a fist, opening bottles or buttoning clothes
- Tiredness, a mild fever or weight loss
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Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition: the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, which becomes swollen, warm and painful. It usually starts in the small joints of the hands, wrists and feet, often on both sides, and the stiffness is worst in the morning, commonly lasting more than half an hour. It can also cause tiredness and weight loss, and affect the lungs, heart and eyes. It is more common in women, in smokers and in people with a family history. In Nigeria it is often called rheumatism and treated for years with painkillers, while the joints are slowly damaged. That damage happens mostly in the first months, which is why NICE advises starting disease-modifying treatment as soon as possible, ideally within three months of persistent symptoms.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Pain, swelling and warmth in the small joints of the fingers, wrists or feet
- The same joints affected on both sides of the body
- Stiffness in the morning that takes more than half an hour to ease
- Difficulty making a fist, opening bottles or buttoning clothes
- Tiredness, a mild fever or weight loss
- Firm lumps under the skin near the elbows (nodules)
When to See a Doctor
See a rheumatologist within days, not months, if more than one joint is swollen, or the small joints of your hands or feet are swollen. NICE advises urgent referral in these cases even when the blood tests are normal. Go to a hospital the same day for a single hot, red, swollen joint with a fever, which can be a joint infection. If you already take treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and develop a fever, a cough or breathlessness, see a doctor the same day, because some treatments lower your defence against infection.
Treatment options
- Disease-modifying medicines (DMARDs) such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine, leflunomide or hydroxychloroquine, started early
- A short course of steroids to settle a flare while the main treatment takes effect
- Biological treatments when the first medicines do not control the disease
- Regular blood tests to check the treatment is safe and working
- Physiotherapy and exercise to keep joints moving and muscles strong
- Stopping smoking, and checks of blood pressure and cholesterol, because rheumatoid arthritis raises the risk of heart disease
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Is rheumatoid arthritis the same as osteoarthritis?
No. Osteoarthritis is wear of the cartilage, worse with use, with short morning stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation caused by the immune system, with swollen joints and long morning stiffness, and it needs specific medicines to stop the damage.
Which blood tests check for rheumatoid arthritis?
Usually rheumatoid factor, an anti-CCP test (NICE suggests it when rheumatoid factor is negative), and an inflammation marker such as ESR or CRP. Normal results do not rule it out: the diagnosis rests on the examination of the joints.
Can rheumatoid arthritis be cured?
Not cured, but well controlled. With early treatment many people reach remission, where the joints are quiet and the damage stops.
Can I get pregnant while on treatment?
Often yes, with planning. Some medicines, methotrexate in particular, must be stopped well before trying for a baby. Talk to your rheumatologist before you try, not after.
Need Help?
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Rheumatology in Lagos →Rheumatology in Abuja →Rheumatology in Port Harcourt →Rheumatology in Jos →Rheumatology in Ibadan →Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Rheumatoid arthritis. NHS. Patient information.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: diagnosis. NHS. Patient information.
- Rheumatoid arthritis in adults: management (NG100). National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
Links last checked 30 October 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.