Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is inflammatory rheumatism and is the most common non-septic inflammatory joint disease. RA is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory disorder of unknown cause, characterized by a symmetrical joint involvement pattern. The main site of its pathology is the synovium of the joints, that is, the membrane of the joints, but damage may also occur to cartilage, bone, tendons and ligaments/fibers. Synovial tissues can become inflamed and proliferate, forming a thick membrane (pannus) that invades bone, cartilage and ligaments, causing damage and deformities/deformities in joints. It generally forms a symmetrical pattern, meaning joint involvement is seen on both sides of the body.
How does rheumatoid arthritis begin?
RA generally begins with symptoms such as pain and swelling in the joints, with increased joint involvement over weeks or months, or insidiously. There is a symmetrical distribution within a few weeks or months.
What is meant by symmetrical involvement of the joints in RA?
Symmetrical involvement is the similar involvement of both sides of the body. , that is, involvement on the right and left side of the body.
What are the typical laboratory findings in blood tests in RA patients?
Rheumatoid Factor (RF) and Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-ccp) antibody positivity are important for diagnosis. In particular, anti-ccp is 98% specific for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Active RA patient has high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-Reactive protein (CRP) values.
Can there be symptoms outside the joint? Rheumatoid Arthritis and these What are they?
Yes it may be, we call these extra-articular symptoms. Symptoms such as high or chronic fever, swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, weakness, skin lesions, eye inflammation, heart, lung and neurological involvement may occur.
How is Rheumatoid Arthritis generally treated?
We have no chance of eradicating the disease fundamentally. The methods used are treatments aimed at reducing inflammatory rheumatism and joint damage. Long-acting medication to control and dry inflammation Drugs are used, such as Methotrexate, salazoprin, Plaquenil and Arava. In addition, injections and infusions (drugs such as Enbrel, Humira or Infliximab/Mabthera) used since 1998 have become important with their effects in the last 10 years. It is important to monitor all of these medications at regular intervals and perform the necessary blood tests. Treatment is planned specifically for the patient; In this, the severity of the disease, accompanying health problems and individual needs are prioritized. In addition, rest is the most important part of the treatment of RA patients. Resting of the relevant joints is recommended, especially during periods of acute inflammation. Except for the acute period, balanced exercises when the patient feels well are beneficial to the patient.
Some simple splints and devices called "splints" can be used to protect the functions of the joints and prevent their deformities. These splints and splints are very effective in preventing deformities. You can also help prevent deformities by following some rules:
a. Be careful to use your large joints rather than small joints when doing work. For example; When opening a door, push it with your arm, not your hand, or when opening a jar, open it with your hand, not your fingers.
b. Try to distribute the load across multiple joints rather than a single joint. For example; When lifting a book, hold it with both hands, not one.
c. Try to use your joints in their most "natural" position. Avoid excessive bending and straining. In some patients, surgery may be required to correct deformities, reduce pain, or make the joints usable.
There is a need for close cooperation between the physician and the patient at all stages of treatment decisions.
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