Persistent swelling in joints could be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis
Pain, stiffness and swelling of the joints of the hands and feet are common early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease which affects about 1 per cent of the population in Singapore. As the disease progresses, the joint inflammation, which affects both sides of the body, can spread to the wrists, knees, ankles and other joints. You may also experience fatigue and weight loss.
The symptoms may come and go with periods of flare-ups and remission. If the joint inflammation is left uncontrolled, it can lead to bone erosion and joint deformity.
While rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages because its symptoms are similar to other diseases, early diagnosis and intervention is essential to prevent joint and organ damage.
“Although joints are most commonly affected, sometimes rheumatoid arthritis can affect other organs, such as the skin, eyes and lungs,” says Dr Tan York Kiat, Consultant, Department of Rheumatology & Immunology, Singapore General Hospital.
Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system malfunctions and mistakenly attacks your own body tissues. Its exact cause is unknown.
Your risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis goes up if you are:
Female
Middle-aged
and if you:
Smoke
Have a family history of rheumatoid arthritis
“Rheumatoid arthritis occurs two to three times more frequently in women than men. Why this condition is more prevalent in female is not completely understood and may be partly related to hormonal factors (e.g. effect of oestrogen) on the immune system,” says Dr Tan.
How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed and treated?
You should consult your doctor if you have persistent swelling in your joints. You will be referred to a rheumatologist who will do a physical examination and carry out some tests before making a diagnosis.
Rheumatoid arthritis cannot be cured but its symptoms can be managed with a combination of medications and physical/occupational therapies. Treatment involves biologic and non-biologic DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs), as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids.
DMARDs can prevent or reduce joint damage as well as preserve joint function, while anti-inflammatory drugs are useful in relieving inflammation until the effect of the DMARDs sets in.
Tips for coping with rheumatoid arthritis
Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Be physically active.
Take adequate rest when your joints are inflamed, or when you feel tired.
Consult a physiotherapist or occupational therapist for activities/exercises that are suitable for your condition.
Singapore General Hospital is organising Swim for Rheumatology! 2017, an event by the SGH Dept of Rheumatology & Immunology. Top national swimmers like Clement Lim will swim laps to raise awareness on Rheumatological conditions and raise funds in support of Rheumatology research. Find out more at 6804 5177 or email swim4rheum@ewerkzprojects.com.
What: “Swim for Rheumatology! 2017
When: 2 Sept 2018, 8am to 1pm
Where: Keppel Club swimming pool
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