|
|
Rheumatoid Arthritis Relief
Tuesday, May 15 - 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Norton Medical Plaza III – Suburban; Marshall Women's Center
Rheumatoid arthritis affects nearly 1.3 million Americans and can have some complications beyond stiff, painful and inflamed joints. However, early treatment can help manage these complications. Join rheumatologist Troy Takagishi, M.D., for a free seminar and question and answer session about options for treating rheumatoid arthritis pain.
|
|
Pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. Reduced range of motion. Long-term, widespread, symmetrical. These are all defining characteristics and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, a type of arthritis in which the immune system attacks the body’s own joint tissues and can cause joint deformity, disability and, sometimes, organ and tissue damage. For some, symptoms may occur occasionally with periods of remission (where symptoms seem to disappear). For others, symptoms are continuous and worsen over time.
Unfortunately, the cause of RA is unknown and there is no cure. But treatments have shown to be successful in relieving symptoms and preventing joint damage. Early, aggressive treatment proves to be the most effective way to limit the damaging effects of this disease.
At Norton Rheumatology Specialists, our physicians may use a combination of medications designed to both reduce symptoms and slow down disease development. In addition, your specialist may recommend moderate physical activity and other lifestyle modifications to help strengthen muscles and bones and increase flexibility.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 2 million Americans and occurs more often in women than in men. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with RA, it is important to visit a rheumatologist as soon as possible.
For more information about rheumatoid arthritis or to find a rheumatology specialist, call (502) 629-1234.
Learn more about rheumatoid arthritis:
Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning it stems from an attack of cells and tissues by the body’s own immune system. It is a long-term, chronic condition that is systemic, or widespread, occurring throughout the body and affecting many different joints. Additionally, rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are symmetrical – if a joint on one side of the body is affected, the related joint on the opposite side of the body typically also is involved.
Diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis
If you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (including warmth and swelling in your joints, joint stiffness and limited movement) your physician will perform a physical examination and evaluate your medical history. You also may be given blood tests and X-rays to determine the extent of bone and tissue damage the condition could have caused. Fatigue, loss of appetite and a low-grade fever also can be determining factors when diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis.
|
