Best Rheumatoid Arthritis Doctors in Visakhapatnam

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints. This condition occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, causing inflammation and joint pain. It could also impact other organs, such as the heart, lungs, and eyes. The disease can be triggered by various factors, including genetic predisposition (specifically the HLA-DR4 gene), certain infections (like hepatitis C, Epstein-Barr virus, and gum disease), lifestyle habits (smoking and obesity), hormonal changes (such as low testosterone levels and fluctuations in oestrogen), and ageing.

The city of Vizag has seen an increasing prevalence of RA in recent years. Fortunately, the city has some of the best doctors who treat rheumatoid arthritis. The top medical institutions, like Apollo Hospitals in Vizag, house a team of specialists treating rheumatoid arthritis who are well-equipped with the latest medical advancements to provide comprehensive care for patients with RA.

Types/Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA progresses through four key stages:

• Early RA: In this stage, patients usually experience mild symptoms like joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and tenderness. There is usually no joint damage at this stage.

• Moderate RA: As RA advances, symptoms worsen with persistent joint inflammation, affecting both larger and smaller joints, and some patients may develop rheumatoid factor antibodies.

• Severe RA: In this stage, joint inflammation and pain become severe, leading to significant joint damage. Patients may also develop rheumatoid nodules, which are firm lumps under the skin near the affected joints.

• End-stage RA: This is the most severe form of RA, characterised by significant and often irreversible joint damage and deformities.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The symptoms of RA can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Persistent joint pain

• Swelling in the joints

• Morning stiffness

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Low-grade fever

• Joint tenderness

Tests to Diagnose Rheumatoid Arthritis

The doctors treating joint pain diagnose RA using the following combination of tests, including:

• Physical physical examination: Involves a thorough assessment of joint swelling, tenderness, redness, and warmth, often conducted by palpation and observation.

• Blood tests: Blood tests are conducted to detect inflammation markers such as C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, as well as rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies.

• Imaging tests: X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging scans, and ultrasound tests enable the tracking of disease progression and the identification of joint damage such as erosions and narrowing of joint spaces.

• Complete blood count (CBC): Evaluates various components of blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, helping to identify abnormalities.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis at Apollo Hospitals, Vizag

The doctors specialising in treating rheumatism at Apollo Hospitals in Vizag offer patients a range of treatment options, including:

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are prescribed to slow disease progression.

• Physical therapy: This involves various techniques aimed at improving joint function, mobility, and reducing the pain associated with RA.

• Surgical Options: The Best Surgeons Specialising in Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis recommend procedures such as synovectomy to remove the inflamed joint lining and joint replacement surgeries for severely damaged joints.

• Lifestyle modifications: This includes exercise, weight management, smoking cessation, and dietary changes to help manage symptoms and improve overall health.