What is Rheumatoid Arthritis (Joint Rheumatism)?

It can affect much more than just joints. Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic disease, is colloquially known as inflammatory joint rheumatism. If this disease develops, the lining of the joint becomes inflamed and damages the joint tissue. However, it damages many systems in the human body such as eyes, skin, lungs, blood vessels and heart. This disease, which can be defined as an autoimmune disorder, is a condition in which the immune system damages body tissues.

What are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis will also damage other parts of the body. It can be seen in all age groups. Having a family history of rheumatoid arthritis increases the risk for the disease. This disease triggers conditions such as osteoporosis, rheumatoid nodules, dry eyes and mouth, and abnormal body combination. Painful swellings occur in areas of the body affected by inflammation.

How is Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated?

There is no specific treatment for the disease. First of all, drug treatment is started. If physical therapy is recommended, medication therapy can be combined with methods such as rest, hot and cold applications. If there is no improvement with physical therapy and rehabilitation, surgery may be planned. Depending on the course and severity of the disease, surgical interventions such as tendon repair, joint fusion, joint replacement and synovectomy are performed.