Arthritis and Rheumatic Clinic

The Arthritis and Rheumatic Clinic specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to the destruction of cartilage, bone, and ligaments, resulting in joint deformity. 

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect individuals of all age groups, from children to the elderly, but it is more commonly found in middle-aged patients and is more prevalent in females than males. The exact causes of rheumatoid arthritis are unknown, but there are links to genetics, smoking, and the presence of certain antibodies. 

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly in the morning. Morning stiffness lasting for 1-2 hours or throughout the day is a characteristic feature of rheumatoid arthritis. The hands and feet are commonly affected, but pain can be present in other joints as well. Other symptoms may include weakness, low-grade fever, loss of appetite, dry eyes and throat, and the presence of nodules under the skin or around the elbows and fingers. If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can cause permanent joint damage. 

Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging, especially in the early stages. Evaluation by a specialist is necessary, and diagnosis involves assessing the patient's symptoms, conducting a physical examination of the affected joints (which may exhibit heat, swelling, and pain), and performing blood tests to determine rheumatoid factor levels such as Anti-CCP and ESR. X-rays and MRI scans may also be conducted to assess the extent of joint damage. However, there is no specific diagnostic method for rheumatoid arthritis, especially in the first six months of the disease. 

The treatment of rheumatoid arthritis typically involves a combination of medications to control inflammation and disease progression. There are various effective drugs available, including disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that do not contain steroids. Rest and exercise are important for managing symptoms and preserving joint function. Preventing further damage to the joints is crucial, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged areas or replace severely affected joints. 

The Arthritis and Rheumatic Clinic provides comprehensive care for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, aiming to control symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. Our team of specialists will develop a personalized treatment plan based on each patient's specific needs and goals. 

The Arthritis and Rheumatic Clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating rheumatoid arthritis. Services include symptom assessment, specialized tests, and imaging. Treatment involves medications like DMARDs, NSAIDs, rest, exercise, and surgery if needed, with a personalized care plan for each patient.