Rheumatic Conditions

Sign & Symptoms

The most frequent symptom is joint pain, which can range from moderate to severe and cause impairment. The discomfort is often accompanied by joint stiffness, which is worst first thing in the morning. Some people may have pain and stiffness across their entire body and swelling in the afflicted joints. Back pain and stiffness are the most common symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, which affects the spine’s joints. 

Arthritis affects the joint’s surface and, in some instances, the underlying bone. If left untreated, the illness develops and causes joint degeneration, which can lead to abnormalities. When infected, some types of arthritis are classed as systemic.

When inflammation occurs, some types of arthritis may cause harm for almost every organ or system, such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, eyes, blood vessels, and skin. Lupus, often known as SLE or systemic lupus erythematosus, is a dangerous inflammatory illness that affects the internal organs, joints, and even skin and can be deadly in severe circumstances.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is made based on the symptoms and a thorough examination of the joints for indications including joint swelling, restricted range of motion, and a crushing or grinding feeling. 

Simple x-rays generally confirm a prognosis of osteoarthritis. Blood testing includes standard examinations as well as antibody-specific tests.

ANA (antinuclear antibody) is an essential screening test for people with clinical characteristics that indicate Lupus. If the ANA is positive, further tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis, determine the severity, and measure the therapy. 

Rheumatoid factor and antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptides are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (anti-CCP)

Treatment Options at 7DMC

The goal of rheumatoid arthritis therapy is to achieve the lowest feasible degree of arthritic disease activity. If possible, remission and minimize joint damage, improve physical function, and improve quality of life. The most effective therapy for RA is a multifaceted approach that includes medical, social, and emotional care for the patient. Medication, joint stress reduction, physical and occupational therapy, and surgical intervention are all alternatives for treatment.

Pharmacological Interventions

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic therapies are the three main types of Pharmacological Interventions used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (DMARDs).

Therapy

The doctor may recommend you to a physical or occupational therapist who may teach you exercises to maintain joint flexibility. The therapist may also suggest new ways to complete everyday duties that are less taxing on your joints. You could wish to take up an object with your forearms, for example.

Surgery

If medication does not prevent or reduce joint deterioration, you and the doctor may decide to have surgery to restore the damaged joints. Surgery can help you regain your capacity to move your joint. It can also help with pain and function.

Several techniques may be used in rheumatoid arthritis surgery:

• Synovectomy – The inflammatory lining of the joint (synovium) can be removed during surgery to help relieve pain and enhance joint flexibility.
• Tendon resurfacing – Tendons around your joint may loosen or rupture as a result of inflammation and joint injury. Your surgeon may repair the tendons around your joint.
• Fusion of the joints – When a joint replacement is not an option, surgically fusing a joint may be indicated to stabilize or straighten a joint and provide pain relief.
• Replacement of the whole joint – Our surgeon will remove the damaged portions of your joint and replace them with a metal and plastic prosthesis during joint replacement surgery.

Bleeding, infection and discomfort are all risks associated with surgery. Consult our specialists about the advantages and disadvantages.