Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis seen in India. Unfortunately, many people ignore the early symptoms for months or even years. They often assume that the pain is due to vitamin deficiencies, age-related changes, overwork, previous injuries, or even infections such as chikungunya.
Recently, a middle-aged woman who had been suffering from joint pain for several years came for consultation. Initially, the pain started in her fingers, wrists, and ankles. Over time, she also developed pain in her knees, shoulders, and neck. Every morning, her hands felt stiff, making it difficult to perform simple daily activities.
Apart from joint pain, she experienced several other symptoms. She often felt tired, had occasional low-grade fever, noticed excessive hair fall, and was found to have low hemoglobin levels. Like many patients, she assumed that these problems were unrelated and simply accepted them as part of her routine life.
As the years passed, her fingers gradually became deformed. The joints appeared bent and swollen. This was the point at which she finally decided to seek medical help.
On examination and further evaluation, she was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own joints.
Although she presented late, her disease was not completely “burnt out.” There was still pain, warmth, and inflammation in several joints, indicating that the disease process was still active.
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Appropriate treatment was started, and within a few months she experienced significant improvement in pain, stiffness, and overall quality of life.
One of the biggest misconceptions about arthritis is that it is a hopeless condition with no treatment. Many people fear being diagnosed with arthritis because they believe it means permanent disability or the end of a normal life.
The reality is very different.
Today, several effective treatments are available for Rheumatoid Arthritis and other autoimmune joint diseases. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent joint damage, reduce pain, and help patients lead active and productive lives.
If you have persistent joint pain, morning stiffness, low hemoglobin, unexplained fatigue, hair fall, or swelling in your joints, do not ignore these symptoms. They may be signs of an underlying arthritis condition that requires medical attention.
Consult your physician early. The sooner the diagnosis is made, the better the chances of preventing long-term complications.
Dr Chetan K Ganteppanavar
MBBS, MD, DNB (Gen. Med)
Kalpana Multi Speciality Clinic
Hubballi
Mob : 8147148724
Time : 11 am to 2.30 pm | 6 pm to 9pm