Smoking is a major risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis
Emphasising that delayed diagnosis of arthritis can lead to permanent joint damage and deformities in individuals, senior rheumatologists on Sunday urged people to seek early intervention as it helps slow down its progress.
Speaking at a webinar on 'Understanding Arthritis', they pointed out that smoking is a strong risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis and advocated lifestyle changes, exercises, yoga, and a healthy diet that is low on carbohydrate and sugar but rich in fibre and protein.
The webinar was held as part of the ongoing 'Healthy India Happy India' initiative of Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, in association with The Hindu. Sunday's edition was the ninth in the series on the theme 'Prevent Illness, Promote Wellness'.
N. Raja, senior consultant in rheumatology, Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore, spoke on the importance of correct diagnosis of symptoms and timely treatment. He said arthritis was a grossly misunderstood clinical sign. 'It does not denote a disease but is an inflammation of joints, including the knee, hip, wrist, shoulder, ankle, elbow and manifests as pain or swelling and stiffness that limits movements and affects daily activities,' he explained, adding that the systemic condition could lead to eye inflammation, spinal fusion, and chronic deformities.
Throwing light on different types of arthritis – rheumatoid, psoriatic, osteoarthritis and gout – Dr. Raja said though often associated with ageing, it could affect any age group, and, therefore, it was important to seek proper specialist care to avoid misdiagnosis and delay in treatment.
M. M. Kavitha, senior rheumatology consultant, Kauvery Hospital, Radial Road, Chennai, said awareness about arthritis was critical. People must be diagnosed during the initial window of opportunity to keep them pain and damage-free, she said.
Dr. Kavitha said there was no single test to diagnose arthritis. A combination of clinical history, physical examination, blood investigations, and imaging such as X-ray, MRI, PET and bone scan help in confirming the diagnosis and monitoring disease progression.
S. Sham from Kauvery Hospital, Alwarpet, spoke about how treatment protocols had changed, and steroids and painkillers were not the main treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. 'Disease-modifying agents entail different levels and combinations of drugs and take 8-12 weeks to start acting,' Dr. Sham said.
The doctors reiterated the importance of patient education and reminded that once arthritis sets in, it cannot be cured but can go into remission with regular follow-up, comprehensive approach to treatment, including diet, exercise, and psychological support.
The webinar can be viewed at newsth.live/arthritis
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