What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Colloquially, the term rheumatism is used not only for rheumatoid arthritis but also for ankylosing spondylitis, gout, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. Doctors use the name rheumatism specifically for rheumatoid arthritis.
Almost all elderly people suffer from osteoarthritis at some point, but only a few percent of people get rheumatism. Osteoarthritis mainly occurs in the elderly, while rheumatism can occur at a very young age. Osteoarthritis is mainly a wear and tear problem, while rheumatism is characterized by inflammation of the joints.
One speaks of rheumatism if 4 of the following complaints have been present for at least 6 weeks: morning stiffness, joint inflammation in three or more joint groups, joint inflammation in at least one hand joint, subcutaneous rheumatoid nodules, demonstrable rheumatoid factor or radiological changes in the hands or feet.
Anti-inflammatory drugs form the basis of the treatment. Fortunately, in recent years, highly effective drugs have been developed against this very debilitating condition.
Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024
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