What is arthritis?
Any condition that affects the joints can be arthritis. There are 2 main types of arthritis - degenerative or "wear and tear" arthritis (osteoarthritis) and inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, Ankylosing spondylitis)
What kind of arthritis do I have?
If you have joint pains see your rheumatologist. By taking a careful history and physical examination, as well as blood tests and x rays your arthritis can be diagnosed.
I heard there is no cure for arthritis - why should I see a doctor?
There is no cure for arthritis but it is important to see a doctor as we can make you feel much better, carry on with your normal activities, and also prevent you from getting crippled and disabled.
My friends say homeopathy is good for arthritis and there are no
side-effects.
Even if you were treated with an inert substance such as chalk, chances are you will feel a little better. This is called the placebo effect. Studies have not shown homeopathy to be better than placebo. Homeopathy CANNOT prevent a person from getting crippled or disabled.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?
RA is a form of arthritis that leads to inflammation in the lining of the joints ("arth" means joint and "itis" means inflammation). The disease may last for many years, and it may affect many different joints in the body. Over time RA may damage various parts of your joints, including cartilage, bone, tendons and ligaments.
Who gets RA?
Anyone can be diagnosed with RA, including children and the elderly. However, people often get RA during their young to middle adult years. Women are diagnosed with RA approximately three times more often than men. Over 2 million people in the United States have RA.
How is RA diagnosed?
RA may be difficult to diagnose. Many times symptoms do not occur on a consistent basis and are confused with symptoms of other illnesses. Generally doctors diagnose individuals by using medical examination, medical history, symptoms and laboratory tests (such as a test for the presence of rheumatoid factor).
How is RA diagnosed?
A specialist, such as a rheumatologist, may be very helpful in the treatment of RA. He or she can suggest things that may help you better manage your RA, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy and rest. Since the signs and symptoms of RA vary from person to person, work with your health care team to develop a treatment program that's right for you.