Monday, March 14, 2011

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Post by A + Orthopaedic & Sports Med Clinic








Aching joints are typical in arthritis. In rheumatoid arthritis, the joint lining swells, invades surrounding tissues, and produces chemical substances that attack and destroy the joint surface.Folks of all ages could be affected. The disease normally begins in middle age.It typically affects joints on both sides of the body in the hands and feet, as well as the hips, knees, and elbows. With out proper treatment, rheumatoid arthritis can grow to be a chronic, disabling condition.CauseIt is not an inherited disease. Researchers believe that some individuals have genes that make them susceptible to the disease. People with these genes will not automatically develop rheumatoid arthritis. There is usually a "trigger," such as an infection or environmental factor, which activates the genes. When the body is exposed to this trigger, the immune system responds inappropriately. Instead of protecting the joint, the immune system begins to create substances that attack the joint. This is what might lead to the development of rheumatoid arthritis.Ligaments and joint capsules become less powerful supporting structures. Erosion of the articular cartilage, together with ligamentous changes, result in deformity and contractures. As the illness progresses, pain and deformity boost.SymptomsPain, morning stiffness, swelling, and systemic symptoms are typical. Other rheumatoid symptoms consist of:• Swelling, pain, and stiffness in the joint, even when it is not being used• A feeling of warmth around the joint• Deformities and contractures of the joint• Symptoms throughout the body, such as fever, loss of appetite and decreased energy• Weakness due to a low red blood cell count (anemia)• Nodules, or lumps, particularly around the elbow• Foot pain, bunions, and hammer toes with lengthy-standing diseasePatients with severe rheumatoid arthritis normally have numerous affected joints in the hands, arms, legs, and feet. Joints of the cervical spine may be involved as well.TreatmentAlthough there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are a number of treatment possibilities that can support relieve joint pain and boost functioning. The treatment strategy is tailored to the patient's requirements and way of life. It is often treated by a team of health care professionals. These experts might include rheumatologists, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, rehabilitation specialists, and orthopaedic surgeons.MedicationMedications employed to control rheumatoid arthritis fall into two categories: those that relieve symptoms and those that have the potential to modify the course of the disease. Often, they are employed together. Aspirin and ibuprofen can help minimize the pain and inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis. Disease-modifying drugs contain methotrexate and sulfasalazine and gold injections.Researchers are also working on biologic agents that can interrupt the progress of the illness. These agents target particular chemicals in the body to avoid them from acting on the joints.Exercise and TherapyExercise is an critical part of a treatment program. The physician and physical therapist might work with patients to develop an exercise program that helps strengthen the joints without stressing them. In some circumstances, a splint or corrective footwear may be needed.SurgeryJoint replacement surgery is also an choice and is usually successful in restoring function.Visit: http://www.sportsmedicineclinicdelhi.com/Call at : 0091 9810633876



About the Author

Dr. Prateek Gupta M.S., M.ch-orth(Livepool),FICS(USA), D.Orth.(London), F.R.C.S - Orth(London), Consultant Orthopedics & Sports Surgeon. Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, India.Contact Details : Arthroscopy Surgery Clinic 24 x 7 Helpline Number : +91 9810633876 Site: http://www.sportsmedicineclinicdelhi.com






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