Best Rheumatoid Arthritis Doctors in Chennai
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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterised by chronic inflammation in the joints. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets the body's healthy tissues, especially the synovium lining the joints. This leads to joint swelling, pain, and damage. In some cases, RA can also impact organs such as the heart, lungs, and eyes. Individuals at higher risk of developing the disease include those with a family history of RA, women, smokers, overweight or obese individuals, older adults, and those exposed to dust, infections, and pollution. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and practising good oral hygiene may help reduce the risk of RA.
In Chennai, a cosmopolitan city with a significant elderly population, RA is a common health concern. The humid weather often exacerbates joint pain and discomfort among RA patients. Fortunately, reputed specialists in rheumatoid arthritis in Chennai provide high-quality care and treatment for affected individuals. Apollo Hospitals in Chennai boasts some of the best doctors specialising in rheumatoid arthritis, ensuring patients receive exceptional care.
Types/Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis
RA can be categorised into three main types:
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Seropositive RA: This type is characterised by the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) antibodies in the blood, leading to increased severity and higher joint damage risk.
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Seronegative RA: This type is defined by the absence of RF antibodies in the blood; resulting in milder symptoms and reduced joint damage risk.
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Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): This type is common in children under 16 years old, causes joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain, impacting growth and development.
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Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The signs and symptoms of this disease can vary greatly among patients but might include:
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Persistent joint pain
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Loss of joint function and deformities
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Swelling, warmth, and redness in multiple joints
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Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
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Fatigue and lack of energy
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High temperature or fever
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Weight loss due to poor appetite
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Dry eyes and mouth
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Other symptoms include rheumatoid nodules, inflammation of the eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels,
anaemia and
depression
Tests to Diagnose Rheumatoid Arthritis
Several key diagnostic tests help doctors who treat rheumatism identify RA which include:
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Physical Exam: This assesses symptoms such as joint swelling, redness, warmth, and stiffness for diagnosis and severity determination.
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Blood Tests: These include rheumatoid factor, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, c-reactive protein and complete blood count tests to check for inflammation signs.
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Imaging Tests: X-ray, MRI, and ultrasound can help assess joint damage and monitor the progression of the disease.
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Synovial Fluid Analysis: This involves examining fluid from swollen joints for signs of inflammation and infection.
Treatment or Surgery Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
The doctors specialising in joint pain at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai suggest the following treatment options for managing RA:
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Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, biologic response modifiers, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs are prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
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Non-Pharmacological Treatments: Physical therapy and occupational therapy can improve joint function and muscle strength.
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Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can help manage RA symptoms.
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Surgical options: The Best Surgeons specialising in Rheumatoid Arthritis suggest surgical procedures like synovectomy (removal of the inflamed joint lining), tendon repair or realignment, joint fusion to stabilise and eliminate pain in a joint, or total joint replacement for severely damaged joints depending on the severity of RA.
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