Rheumatism
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Introduction
Rheumatism, often referred to as “arthritis” in common parlance, encompasses a variety of conditions characterized by chronic pain and inflammation in the joints, muscles, and connective tissues. Dr. Mahendra Khandare, a distinguished rheumatologist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating rheumatic diseases, provides a comprehensive overview of this condition, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is Rheumatism?
Rheumatism is an umbrella term for disorders that cause pain and inflammation in the joints, muscles, and fibrous tissue. According to Dr. Mahendra Khandare, these conditions can vary significantly in their severity and impact on daily life. Common types of rheumatic diseases include:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain and reduced mobility.
- Lupus: An autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and damage to various body systems, including joints, skin, kidneys, and heart.
- Gout: A form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain and inflammation.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: A type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing inflammation and potentially leading to the fusion of the vertebrae.
Causes and Risk Factors
Dr. Khandare explains that the exact cause of many rheumatic diseases remains unknown. However, several factors can contribute to the development of these conditions:
- Genetics: A family history of rheumatic diseases can increase the risk.
- Autoimmune Reactions: Conditions like RA and lupus occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.
- Age: The risk of developing rheumatic diseases increases with age.
- Gender: Some rheumatic conditions, such as RA and lupus, are more common in women.
- Infections: Certain infections can trigger rheumatic diseases.
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate the symptoms of rheumatic diseases.