Professionals on Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Overview

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic or long-term disease which is characterized by the inflammation of the joints. Depending on the severity, the inflammation can affect the appearance and functionality of the joints and other parts of the body. Also, lumps or rheumatoid nodules may occur anywhere in the body. People who are diagnosed with RA often range from ages of 30 to 50.

Although the cause is not known, researchers think certain factors, like hereditary, contribute to its development. More overly, professionals categorized this disease as an autoimmune disorder. This means the immune system attacks and targets its own healthy cells and tissues. RA may also affect the skeletal, respiratory, and cardiovascular.

Symptoms

RA affects the hands, wrists, feet, ankles, knees, shoulder, and elbows. Along with inflammation, symptoms may appear, like:

1. Stiffness
2. Swelling
3. Decreased movement
4. Bumps over small joints
5. Difficulty in performing daily living activities
6. Fatigue
7. Low-grade fever

Diagnosis and Management

These procedures and testing can confirm RA:

1. X-ray
2. Joint aspiration
3. Nodule biopsy
4. Blood testing
5. Ultrasound or MRI

After a proper diagnosis, the treatment will usually be based on:

1. Age
2. Overall health and medical history
3. Severance
4. Medicine tolerance
5. Patience preference

Generally, professionals use medicines, splints, and physical therapy to limit pain and inflammation. Surgery, like joint repair, fusion, replacement, and surgical cleaning, may be necessary.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment and Lifestyle

It is also important to incorporate pain and inflammation management in daily living activities. Lifestyle changes include:

1. Equal amount of activity and rest
2. Assistive/adaptive devices
3. Pharmacological therapy

At Rheumatology of Central Indiana, we encourage patients to ask questions about these conditions. We have Dr. Tarek Kteleh, a Rheumatologist in Indiana, to answer and address your inquiries. As one of the leading providers of health care to patients with arthritis and other related immunological disorders in Indiana, we invite you to come and visit us. We offer Rheumatologist Treatment in Muncie, Indiana.

Dr. Kteleh is a passionate Rheumatologist who treats patients for joint point, autoimmune and connective tissue diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and more. Call us to book your appointment today.