Rheumatoid Arthritis - How To Treat It?

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune condition wherein the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the linings of the joint. This condition affects both sides of the body including the eyes, hands and legs. Unlike the depreciating damage of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis causes a distressful swelling that consequently leads to bone deformity and even erosion. As such, it is one of the more important characteristics of the condition which distinguishes it from other forms of arthritis. It often leads to debilitating disabilities.

Risk factors and complications
Factors such as obesity, smoking, age (affects mostly after the age of 40) and many environmental factors increase the risk of Rheumatoid arthritis. In severe cases, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to a plethora of other conditions such as:

1. Dry mouth and eyes
2. Osteoporosis
3. Abnormal body composition

Treatment
Blood and imaging tests will first be carried out. Based on such diagnosis, you may be advised medications such as steroids or Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Now in case of severe pain, one would have to take to surgery. Varying surgeries work on different joints of the body and some of these include:

1. Arthroplasty: This procedure replaces all or a part of the joint for instance, the knee or the hip.
2. Arthroscopy: A procedure that helps pull out inflamed tissue or debris from the required joint with the help of light, small instruments.
3. Cervical spinal fusion: Pressure on the median nerve is eased with this procedure.
4. Hands and foot surgeries: These procedures help correct dysfunctional joints of the hands, fingers, legs, and toes.
5. Synovectomy: Synovectomy helps remove more intricate tissues which are inflamed or otherwise.

What to consider before you opt for one?
Although these various surgeries often restore almost normal movements in the patient, they can only do so in two or possibly three joints. And of course, it goes without saying that you should consult with an orthopaedist orthopaedic surgeon) experienced in arthritis and joint surgeries before opting for such.