Written by Angeliki Kotsalidou, Rheumatologist, Curator of the Rheumatology Department HYGEIA, Georgios Kitas Director of the Rheumatology Department HYGEIA
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is characterized by morning stiffness, swelling and joint pain, but also the possibility of other organs being affected, e.g. respiratory and cardiovascular.
It occurs at all ages and in both sexes with a predominance in women. If left untreated, it can have serious consequences for a person’s functionality and general health.
Early diagnosis and treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis is extremely important for the outcome, so if such symptoms are observed, they should be evaluated by a rheumatologist immediately. The pharmaceutical treatments available for Rheumatoid Arthritis in our time are many, with formulations, either oral or injectable. They are constantly being improved and in the majority are highly effective, but they need careful management by experts, individualization and regular clinical and laboratory monitoring. Also, due to the immunosuppression entailed by these treatments, the vaccination coverage of these patients is accordingly planned and recommended, in order to avoid infections and their complications.
Beyond pharmaceutical intervention, a more comprehensive treatment is equally important. At times, people with RA may benefit from physical therapy, occupational therapy, workplace modification, psychosocial support and treatment of co-morbidities, i.e. health problems that may be related to RA or its treatment (e.g. infections, osteoporosis, cardiovascular risk). Specific complementary therapies that have been properly evaluated and are offered by qualified individuals (eg acupuncture) may also help.
For an overall good level of health, it is extremely important to change some daily habits. This includes, among others: smoking cessation (which, among the well-known risks, is also associated with an increased risk of developing, increased severity and lack of response to Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment), maintaining an ideal body weight and recommending individualized physical activity in combination with good nutrition.
People with Rheumatoid Arthritis can now have an excellent quality of life, full activity and a normal daily life as long as they are promptly diagnosed and effectively treated by their rheumatologist and other specialized healthcare providers with an organized and personalized approach.
Source :Skai
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