Different types of arthritis have different symptoms. The joints of the body are the site of much of the action in arthritis. Many types of arthritis show signs of joint inflammation: swelling, stiffness, tenderness, redness, or warmth. Pain and stiffness in and around one or more joints are common symptoms for most types of arthritis. These joint symptoms may be accompanied by weight loss, fever, or weakness.

Depending on the type of arthritis, symptoms can develop suddenly or gradually over time. The severity varies from person to person and even from day to day. In some people, only a few joints are affected, and the impact may be small. In other people, the entire body system may be affected.

Degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) is the most common type of arthritis; joint inflammation may also be caused by infection, which can lead to septic arthritis. When these symptoms last for more than two weeks, inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis may be the cause.