Is Rheumatoid arthritis different from osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a very common type of arthritis that is caused by wear and tear of the cartilage that covers and protects the bones at the place of joints whereas, in rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the healthy joints.
Is Rheumatoid arthritis an autoimmune disorder?
Yes, Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disease, like any other autoimmune disease, the immune system attacks healthy cells of the body by mistake causing inflammation and pain.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that predominantly affects the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis causes severe pain, swelling and stiffness in your joints, as a result, it becomes difficult to bend and use them. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect other organs too such as the eyes, lungs, heart, or skin.
When should I see a Rheumatologist?
All of us experience musculoskeletal pains which are self limiting and short lived. If your pain is not resolving in 1-2 weeks it is better to take an expert opinion. If joint symptoms are associated with following symptoms it is always advised to meet nearby Rheumatologist
1. Systemic symptoms like fever, weight loss, loss of appetite etc.
2. Most severe pain in the morning hours
3. More than 3 joints are involved at the same time
4. Skin rash, abdominal pain
Who is a Rheumatologist?
A rheumatologist is a physician, who has received further training in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disease and systemic autoimmune conditions. Apart from the common arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, Rheumatologists are involved in treating complicated multisystem diseases like Vasculitis / SLE etc.
What is Rheumatology?
Rheumatology represents a subspecialty in internal medicine and paediatrics, which is devoted to diagnosis and therapy of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) are a diverse group of diseases that commonly affect the joints, but can also affect the muscles, other tissues and internal organs. There are more than 200 different RMDs, affecting both children and adults.
What are the common ophthalmology disorders?
The common ophthalmology disorders include – Bulging Eyes Cataracts Refractive error Colour blindness Crossed eyes Diabetic Retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration Glaucoma
Why should you consult an Ophthalmologist?
If you are experiencing loss of vision, changes in your vision or colour of vision, dry eyes or are undergoing any eye infections or are suffering from chronic eye problems then it is recommended that you visit an ophthalmologist or an eye specialist.
People suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV, Thyroid, a family history of eye conditions should see an ophthalmologist as these diseases can raise the risk of eye conditions. People who are over 40 years old, should visit an ophthalmologist to know the baseline of your eye health.
How often should you have your eyes examined?
The consultations are recommended as per the following age group - Age 19-40: at least every 10 years Age 41-55: at least every 5 years Age 55 & above: at least every 3 years
To understand the the functionality of your eyes, it is important to get them examined periodically by an ophthalmologist.
When do you require an eye surgery?
Surgery is required only in cases where a person is undergoing the following conditions - Sudden vision loss or changes Sudden or severe eye pain Eye injury
