HealthiNation explains the four stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) according to Iris Navarro-Millan, MD, rheumatologist at HSS.

The four stages of rheumatoid arthritis are known as synovitis, pannus, fibrous ankylosis, and bony ankylosis.

“As a soon as you have joint swelling and severe pain that impairs your ability to move around, then you have to start thinking the right doctor for you is a rheumatologist,” said Dr. Navarro-Millan.

She added, “Early treatment is key in order to prevent the progression of RA that could probably limit your everyday ability to live life to the fullest, so you can stay as healthy as you can.”

Watch the full video interview at Healthination.com.