Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a severe condition that can cause swelling, pain, and stiffness in joints.
The joint damage that RA causes generally happens on both sides of the body. Thus, if a joint is affected in one of your legs or arms, the same joint in the other leg or arm will probably be affected, as well.
It can affect anyone of any age. It can worsen quickly, so early diagnosis and intensive treatment by the Best Rheumatologists in Ahmedabad are important. The sooner you start the RA treatment, the more effective it’s likely to be.
Common Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
RA symptoms commonly affect joints in the hands, wrists, and knees but can also affect tissues and organs in the body, including the heart, lungs, and eyes.
Symptoms can include:
- stiffness in more than one joint
- pain or aching in more than one joint
- swelling/tenderness in at least one joint
- Similar joint symptoms on both sides of the body
- failure of joint deformities and function
- fatigue
- loss of appetite
- low-grade fever
- weakness
What Treatments and Procedures Are Available?
There are many treatments available for rheumatoid arthritis. The earlier that intensive treatment is started by the Best Rheumatologists in Ahmedabad, the more likely it will work.
There are three primary ways to treat rheumatoid arthritis:
- Medication
- Physical therapies
- Surgery
Medication
There are four primary groups of drugs that are used to treat Rheumatology in Ahmedabad and across the world. These are:
- Painkillers
It can help relieve the pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis but should not be the only treatment used.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
They work in a fantastic way to relieve the pain and inflammation caused due to RA. NSAIDs can be taken as a capsule, liquid, tablet, suppository to be inserted into your bum, cream, or gel.
- Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
Methotrexate (Trexall, Otrexup), leflunomide (Arava), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) are some DMARDs, which are prescribed to slow the progression of RA and prevent joints tissues from permanent damage.
- Steroids
Steroids or corticosteroids are usually utilized to provide short-term pain relief. This could happen during a flare-up or while you’re waiting for your DMARD drug to start working.
Numerous people with rheumatoid arthritis require to take more than one drug since different drugs work in different ways.
Physical Therapies
Being physically active can improve your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, including pain.
It can be recommended by your Rheumatologist Doctor in Ahmedabad to maintain flexibility in your joints.
Surgery
Surgery may be considered if joint damage can’t be slowed or prevented by medications. It can reduce pain and restore the functionality of the joints. Some surgical Rheumatoid Arthritis treatments include synovectomy, tendon repair, joint fusion, and total joint replacement.
At Asian Hospital, our Best Rheumatologists in Ahmedabad will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your medical needs. Just be prepared to describe any difficulties you have and how they affect your life or the lives of those who actually care for you.
Book your appointment today at Asian Hospital for the best Rheumatic Diseases Treatment in Ahmedabad!