Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment in Delhi, India

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may include the following:

• Joints are tender, warm, and swollen.
• Joint stiffness that worsens in the mornings and after inactivity.
• Fatigue, fever, appetite loss.
• Low-grade fever, joint symptoms on both sides of the body.

As an autoimmune disease, Rheumatoid arthritis is the result of a person’s immune system which normally aids in the protection of their body against infection and disease. One’s immune system attacks healthy tissues in their joints when they have rheumatoid arthritis. It can also lead to other medical issues with the heart, lungs, nerves, eyes, skin.

While the exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors such as immune system malfunction, heredity, environmental factors, various bacterial infections, and viruses that may cause the disease.

Don’t we all experience general rheumatological pains that last for a few days at a time? However, if the pain in the joints, muscles, neck, back, and bones is severe and lasts for more than a few days, it is time to see a doctor. Rheumatic diseases are difficult to diagnose in their early stages, and common symptoms can be mistaken for those of much more complex conditions. Rheumatologists are usually the experts in this field, and they are trained to assess all of their patient’s symptoms in order to diagnose and treat their conditions.

• A person taking all necessary medications and still experiencing swelling in their throat, difficulty in breathing, or intense pain in one’s chest or abdomen, should immediately seek medical attention without any delay. These symptoms could indicate a serious issue, such as a drug infection.
• Pain that doesn’t improve with appropriate lifestyle changes, exercises, or other treatments should refer to a doctor for further guidance.

A doctor may inquire about the patient’s symptoms as well as their medical history. Because no single test can confirm a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, a doctor may use a combination of tests. Rheumatoid Arthritis is diagnosed based on a number of factors, including morning stiffness that lasts at least one hour and has been present for at least six weeks, swelling of three or more joints for at least six weeks, swelling on both sides of the body of the same joints. Hand x-ray changes that are characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis, skin rheumatoid nodules (lumps). A positive blood test for rheumatoid factor or anti-citrullinated peptide/protein antibodies.

Rheumatoid Arthritis has no cure so far. However, some of the effective treatments to manage it and prevent the damage, are listed below.

• Establishing a specific testing goal that indicates remission or a low disease state.
• Testing acute phase reactants and conducting monthly monitoring to assess treatment and management plan progress.
• If no progress is made, the medication regimen will be changed as soon as possible.

Medications, rest, exercises, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery are other important treatments for rheumatoid arthritis.

• Sex: Females are three times more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis than people who are born as males at birth.
• Age: The onset of rheumatoid arthritis is most common in adults in their 50s. For people assigned male at birth, the risk continues to rise with age. It is more common in people who are assigned females at birth during their child-bearing years.
• Smoking: Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
• Obesity: In a person, obesity can increase the likelihood

Smoking aggravates Rheumatoid Arthritis. People who smoke should quit completely because it can help with the symptoms. Moderate alcohol consumption is not harmful to people with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Other necessary actions need to be taken in order to stay prevented are as follows:

• One can consume alcohol in moderation.
• Can reduce bone loss.
• Increase in intake of fish.
• Enhancing one’s oral health.
• Quitting smoking.
• Keeping a healthy weight.
• By staying active.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than just the joints, leading to a sea of other issues. Among them are:

• Premature Heart Disease: People with rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to develop heart disease than those who do not have the condition.
• Interstitial Lung Disease: The primary pulmonary manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis, interstitial lung disease can develop when the person’s lungs become inflamed.
• Joint damage: Permanent joint damage can occur if rheumatoid arthritis is not managed or treated early. Joints can become severely deformed, as well as tendons, bones, and cartilage nearby. Surgery is sometimes required to prevent joint function loss.
• Pneumonia: It is the most common infection among people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Since there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, an early diagnosis and effective treatment are absolutely essential. However, there are many effective methods for reducing pain and inflammation slowing the disease process. The disease progresses differently in each individual and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Anyone who requires further information about rheumatoid arthritis is suggested to contact a healthcare professional.

Reviewed by Dr. S.K.S. Marya, Chairman & Chief Surgeon - Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement, Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy & Sports Injury on 20-Oct-2022.

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