What is Rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is more than just joint pain; it's a long-term autoimmune condition that causes persistent inflammation in the lining of your joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike osteoarthritis, which typically results from wear and tear, RA occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, especially the joints.

RA most commonly affects smaller joints, such as the hands, wrists, and feet, often mirroring symptoms on both sides of the body. But its impact doesn't stop there. Over time, chronic inflammation can damage cartilage, the natural cushion between bones, leading to joint deformity and even bone erosion. In severe cases, joints may lose mobility or fuse.

What makes RA particularly challenging is that it's a systemic disease, meaning it can affect more than just joints. RA involves other organs in some individuals, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. This broad range of symptoms can significantly affect overall health and quality of life.

Thanks to advancements in medicine, there are now a variety of effective treatments that help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. While there's no cure for RA, early diagnosis and proactive treatment can significantly reduce pain, preserve joint function, and protect other organs.

Treatment options

While there’s no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), timely and consistent treatment can make a significant difference. If left untreated, RA can cause joint damage in a short period. However, starting medication early, especially with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), dramatically increases the chances of achieving remission, where symptoms are minimal or even disappear for a while.

1. Medications

Your doctor will recommend a treatment plan based on how advanced your symptoms are and how long you’ve had RA. Some of the main categories of medications include:

• NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or naproxen can be helpful. Stronger, prescription versions are also available. However, long-term use can sometimes cause side effects like stomach issues, heart problems, or kidney concerns.
• Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatories used for quick relief, especially during flare-ups. They’re effective but have long-term side effects, such as weight gain, increased blood sugar, thinning bones, and skin bruising. The goal is to use them for the shortest time necessary.
• Conventional DMARDs: These are often the first line of defence in slowing the progression of RA. While effective, they require monitoring due to potential liver or lung side effects.
• Biologic DMARDs: These targeted therapies work on specific parts of the immune system. They’re often used alongside conventional DMARDs and require regular monitoring to guard against rare but serious infections.
• Targeted Synthetic DMARDs: They are for patients who don’t respond well to other treatments. While effective, they may increase the risk of blood clots and heart-related issues, especially at higher doses.

2. Physical and Occupational Therapy

Working with a physical or occupational therapist can help preserve joint function and maintain independence in daily activities. Therapists can teach joint-friendly movements and suggest tools, like easy-grip kitchenware or buttonhooks, to reduce strain on your hands and wrists. These small changes can make daily life more manageable and less painful.

3. Surgical Interventions

Thanks to modern medications, fewer people need surgery today. However, in severe cases where joint damage is extensive or symptoms are unmanageable, surgery may be necessary. Standard surgical options include:

• Joint replacement (e.g., knee or hip)
• Tendon repair
• Joint fusion for better alignment and pain relief

Surgery is usually considered when medications and therapies haven’t provided enough relief.

At Apex Hospitals, our expert team of rheumatologists works closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. From early diagnosis to advanced therapies, we’re here to help you manage RA effectively and live life to the fullest.