DiagnosisRheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages because the early signs and symptoms mimic those of many other diseases. There is no one blood test or physical finding to confirm the diagnosis. Show
During the physical exam, your doctor will check your joints for swelling, redness and warmth. He or she may also check your reflexes and muscle strength. Blood testsPeople with rheumatoid arthritis often have an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR, also known as sed rate) or C-reactive protein (CRP) level, which may indicate the presence of an inflammatory process in the body. Other common blood tests look for rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies. Imaging testsYour doctor may recommend X-rays to help track the progression of rheumatoid arthritis in your joints over time. MRI and ultrasound tests can help your doctor judge the severity of the disease in your body. TreatmentThere is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. But clinical studies indicate that remission of symptoms is more likely when treatment begins early with medications known as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). MedicationsThe types of medications recommended by your doctor will depend on the severity of your symptoms and how long you've had rheumatoid arthritis.
TherapyYour doctor may refer you to a physical or occupational therapist who can teach you exercises to help keep your joints flexible. The therapist may also suggest new ways to do daily tasks that will be easier on your joints. For example, you may want to pick up an object using your forearms. Assistive devices can make it easier to avoid stressing your painful joints. For instance, a kitchen knife equipped with a hand grip helps protect your finger and wrist joints. Certain tools, such as buttonhooks, can make it easier to get dressed. Catalogs and medical supply stores are good places to look for ideas. SurgeryIf medications fail to prevent or slow joint damage, you and your doctor may consider surgery to repair damaged joints. Surgery may help restore your ability to use your joint. It can also reduce pain and improve function. Rheumatoid arthritis surgery may involve one or more of the following procedures:
Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection and pain. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with other information we have about you. If you are a Mayo Clinic
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Alternative medicineSome common complementary and alternative treatments that have shown promise for rheumatoid arthritis include:
Coping and supportThe pain and disability associated with rheumatoid arthritis can affect a person's work and family life. Depression and anxiety are common, as are feelings of helplessness and low self-esteem. The degree to which rheumatoid arthritis affects your daily activities depends in part on how well you cope with the disease. Talk to your doctor or nurse about strategies for coping. With time you'll learn what strategies work best for you. In the meantime, try to:
Preparing for your appointmentWhile you might first discuss your symptoms with your family doctor, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in the treatment of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions (rheumatologist) for further evaluation. What you can doWrite a list that includes:
What to expect from your doctorYour doctor may ask some of the following questions:
Which drug is beneficial for a patient with osteoarthritis who is having painful muscle spasms?Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Over-the-counter NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), taken at the recommended doses, typically relieve osteoarthritis pain. Stronger NSAIDs are available by prescription.
Which dietary supplements may be prescribed specifically to a patient with osteoarthritis?Glucosamine/chondroitin, for joint health. Results from several well-designed scientific studies suggest that glucosamine supplements may work for OA, particularly OA of the knee or hip.
Which medications inhibit tumor necrosis factor alpha TNF )The TNF inhibitors that have been approved by the FDA include infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept, golimumab, and certolizumab. To decrease side effects and costs, most patients with mild or moderate disease are treated with methotrexate before adding or switching to a TNF inhibitor.
What signs symptoms would the nurse expect to find in a client diagnosed with osteoarthritis in the knee?Symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, clicking noises, and reduced flexibility in a joint. Excess weight, a previous injury and repeated joint movements increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Regular exercise, healthy eating, special devices and pain management can help to treat symptoms.
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