FAQS
Have a question – Scroll through the list of frequently asked questions but if you don’t find your answer, feel free to give us a call or drop us a note. Find out FAQs asked by most of our patients related to below diseases, treatment, lifestyle and other issues.
FAQs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
The main symptoms include joint pain, tenderness, swelling, or stiffness that lasts for six weeks or longer, morning stiffness lasting for 30 minutes or more, and more than one joint is affected, typically small joints (wrists, certain joints in the hands and feet). Symptoms may fluctuate in intensity, known as flares.
Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests (like Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies), and imaging tests (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRI).
Treatments include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, and biologic response agents (biologics). Early treatment is crucial for preventing long-term joint damage.
Yes, besides joint deterioration, RA can affect the skin (forming rheumatoid nodules), eyes (causing dryness and inflammation), heart (leading to conditions like pericardial effusion), nervous system (causing peripheral nerve entrapment), lungs (leading to interstitial lung disease), and blood (resulting in anemia or vasculitis).
People with RA have a higher risk of heart disease. They are more likely to experience heart attacks and sudden cardiac death. Managing cardiac risk factors is important for people with RA.
Lifestyle changes include balanced nutrition, regular exercise, managing stress, quitting smoking, and ensuring adequate rest. These can help control inflammation, improve joint function, and enhance overall well-being.
If you experience joint pain, stiffness, or swelling around a joint that lasts more than two weeks, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
While there’s no cure for RA, effective management with medications, lifestyle changes, and regular medical checkups can reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes.
FAQs for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Symptoms of SLE can vary and may include joint pain, muscle pain, chest pain, headaches, rashes (often a butterfly rash across the face), fever, hair loss, mouth sores, fatigue, shortness of breath, swollen glands, swelling in limbs, and confusion. SLE can also cause photosensitivity, dry eyes, depression, seizures, anemia, Raynaud’s syndrome, osteoporosis, heart disease, and kidney disease.
The exact cause of SLE is unknown, but it’s believed to be a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Factors such as exposure to sunlight, certain infections, and reactions to medications can trigger SLE in susceptible individuals.
SLE is more common in women, particularly those between the ages of 15 and 44. It is also more prevalent in Black, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, Alaska Native, First Nations people, and Pacific Islanders. Having a biological parent with lupus increases the risk.
Diagnosing SLE involves a physical exam and various tests like blood tests to check for immune system activity and infections, urinalysis, antinuclear antibody (ANA) test, and possibly a biopsy of skin or kidney tissue.
Treatment for SLE usually involves a combination of medications, including Hydroxychloroquine, NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants, to manage symptoms and prevent tissue damage. Treatment plans may also include managing specific symptoms or health conditions caused by lupus.
While SLE cannot be prevented due to its unclear causes, flare-ups can be minimized by avoiding triggers such as sun exposure, staying active, getting enough sleep, and protecting mental health.
SLE is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management. The impact of SLE can change over time, and regular visits to healthcare providers are essential. While there is no cure, appropriate treatment can manage symptoms and potentially put SLE into remission.
FAQs for Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common form of arthritis marked by the breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage in your joints. It often results in stiff and painful joints, particularly in the knee, hip, spine, and hands.
The exact cause of OA is unknown, but several factors can increase your risk, including age, gender, family history, previous knee injury, repetitive strain on the knee, being overweight, and stress from exercise or sports.
Symptoms include knee pain or stiffness during activities such as walking or climbing stairs, pain with activity, joint stiffness after resting, swelling in the knee, and a grating sensation when using the knee.
Diagnosis typically involves a medical history review, physical examination of the knee for movement, alignment, strength, and stability, and may include X-rays, MRI scans, blood tests, and joint aspiration.
Treatment may include lifestyle changes to reduce stress on the knees, physical therapy, steroid injections, over-the-counter pain medications, and topical pain-relieving creams. In cases where symptoms are severe, surgery like partial knee resurfacing or total knee replacement may be considered.
Most people with osteoarthritis do not need surgery. Effective management often involves exercise, weight control, education, and pain relief medications. Surgery is typically a last resort if these treatments do not yield sufficient results.
FAQs for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory disease that can cause some of the bones in the spine to fuse over time, making the spine less flexible and potentially resulting in a hunched posture. It can also cause inflammation in other parts of the body, most commonly the eyes.
Common symptoms include back pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning and after periods of inactivity. Neck pain and fatigue are also common. Over time, symptoms might worsen, improve, or stop at irregular intervals.
The specific cause of AS is unknown, but genetic factors seem to play a significant role. The HLA-B27 gene is particularly associated with an increased risk of developing AS. However, not everyone with the gene develops the condition.
AS generally occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood. Most people with AS have the HLA-B27 gene, but having the gene doesn’t necessarily mean one will develop AS. The condition is more common in people assigned male at birth and those who have a close biological relative with AS.
Diagnosis involves a physical exam, medical and family history, and possibly imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs. Blood tests may be conducted to check for the HLA-B27 gene and markers of inflammation.
Treatment includes medication (such as anti-inflammatory drugs and biologics) and physical therapy. Exercise is important for maintaining flexibility. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
AS can impact daily activities due to stiffness and pain, particularly in the mornings. It can affect one’s ability to perform tasks that involve bending or twisting. People with AS may need to modify their routines or use assistive devices to manage their symptoms effectively.
Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing good posture can help. It’s also beneficial to incorporate stress-reducing activities like yoga or meditation. Staying active and avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity can alleviate stiffness.
While there’s no specific diet for AS, eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods might help manage inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds, and antioxidants present in fruits and vegetables can be beneficial.
Exercise is crucial for managing AS. It helps in maintaining flexibility and improving posture. Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and Pilates are often recommended. Consulting with a physical therapist for a tailored exercise plan is advisable.
Living with a chronic condition like AS can be challenging, affecting mental health and social interactions. It’s important to seek support from friends, family, or support groups, and consider professional help if experiencing anxiety or depression.
AS can cause discomfort and pain, which may interfere with sleep. To improve sleep quality, use a firm mattress, maintain a regular sleep schedule, and practice good sleep hygiene. Gentle stretching before bed can also be helpful.
Discuss your condition with your employer to explore flexible working hours, ergonomic adjustments, or the possibility of working from home. Taking regular breaks to stretch and move around is also helpful.
Discuss your condition with your employer to explore flexible working hours, ergonomic adjustments, or the possibility of working from home. Taking regular breaks to stretch and move around is also helpful.
When traveling, plan ahead for comfort. Request aisle seats for more legroom, take regular breaks to stretch if driving, and carry your medication. A letter from your doctor explaining your condition and medication can be useful.
FAQs for Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis associated with the skin condition psoriasis. It can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in and around the joints and areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bone.
Common symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, swollen fingers and toes, foot pain, lower back pain, nail changes, and eye inflammation. The severity of symptoms can vary greatly.
The exact cause is unknown, but it’s believed to be related to an immune system attack on healthy cells and tissue. Genetic factors play a role, and environmental triggers may include physical trauma or infections.
Risk factors include having psoriasis, a family history of psoriatic arthritis, and being between the ages of 30 and 55.
There is no single test for PsA. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, medical history, blood tests, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to assess joint damage and inflammation.
Treatment options include NSAIDs, corticosteroids, DMARDs, biologics, and JAK inhibitors. Physical therapy and lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise, can also help manage symptoms.
Yes, complications can include severe joint damage, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Effective management includes medication adherence, regular exercise, stress management, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Consult a doctor if you have psoriasis and develop joint pain, or if you notice new symptoms or a significant change in your existing symptoms.
Lifestyle changes that can help include a balanced diet, low-impact exercises, weight management, and avoiding activities that strain your joints.
PsA may impact work life, especially if it involves physical labor. Discussing your condition with your employer, exploring flexible work arrangements, and ergonomic workplace adaptations can help. Taking regular breaks and managing stress are also important.
Yes, living with a chronic condition like PsA can affect emotional health. Feelings of anxiety and depression are not uncommon. Seeking support from mental health professionals, support groups, or online communities can be beneficial.
While no specific diet cures PsA, eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help manage symptoms. Foods like fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits and vegetables may be helpful. Avoiding excessive alcohol and processed foods is also recommended.
Low-impact exercises, like swimming, cycling, or walking, can help maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength without putting too much strain on the joints. Consulting a physical therapist for a customized exercise plan is advisable.
PsA can sometimes limit social and family activities due to pain or fatigue. Open communication about your condition and its limitations can help your family and friends understand your needs. Planning activities that are PsA-friendly can also help maintain social connections.
Pain and discomfort from PsA can disrupt sleep. Creating a comfortable sleeping environment, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and using pain management strategies before bed can help improve sleep quality.
Yes, with proper planning. Choose accommodations that are easy to navigate, pack your medications, and plan for breaks during travel to stretch and move around. Carrying a letter from your doctor about your condition and medications can be helpful for air travel.
Yes, due to psoriasis, skin care is important. Keeping skin moisturized, avoiding harsh soaps, and using sunscreen can help manage skin symptoms. It’s also important to be aware of any new skin changes and consult with a dermatologist if needed.
PsA can impact relationships and intimacy due to physical discomfort or lowered self-esteem. Open communication with your partner about your condition and seeking advice from a healthcare provider can help address these challenges.
Staying informed involves regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, keeping up-to-date with the latest treatments and research, and possibly joining PsA support groups or forums for shared experiences and advice.
FAQs for Gout
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in joints, often the big toe.
Gout occurs when urate crystals accumulate in a joint due to high levels of uric acid in the blood. This happens when the body breaks down purines found in certain foods and beverages.
Symptoms include intense joint pain, lingering discomfort, inflammation, redness, warmth in the affected joint, and limited range of motion.
Diagnosis involves a joint fluid analysis, blood tests to check uric acid levels, and imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound.
Risk factors include being male, obesity, certain health conditions (like hypertension and diabetes), diet rich in purines, alcohol consumption, and certain medications.
Treatments include lifestyle changes (like diet and weight management), anti-inflammatories during attacks, and uric acid-lowering drugs for recurrent cases.
Yes, complications can include recurrent gout, advanced gout with tophi formation, and kidney stones.
Regular physical activity, weight loss for overweight individuals, and joint protection strategies can help. A healthy diet with fewer purine-rich foods and limiting alcohol and sugary drinks is recommended.
Gout can cause stress and contribute to depression, especially during frequent flares. Healthy lifestyle habits like exercise and good nutrition can improve mood and overall well-being.
It’s important to see a doctor, especially if you have a fever and joint inflammation. Immediate medical care is crucial to manage pain and prevent joint damage.
Gout can impact daily life, particularly during flares. Adapting activities and seeking workplace accommodations can help manage these challenges.
Yes, avoiding high-purine foods like red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood, and limiting alcohol and drinks with fructose can help manage gout.
Yes, regular low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or biking can help reduce the risk of flares and improve overall health.
Gout is more common in men, particularly after age 40, and in women after menopause.
While gout can’t be entirely prevented due to its complex nature, managing risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the likelihood of flares.
Medications are used to reduce pain and inflammation during flares and to lower uric acid levels to prevent future attacks.
While gout often affects the big toe, it can also impact other joints like the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists, and fingers.
Gout can affect family activities and responsibilities, especially during flare-ups. Open communication about limitations can help in managing family dynamics.
Yes, gout is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Support from healthcare providers, support groups, and online communities can provide valuable information and emotional support.
FAQs for Sjogren’s Syndrome
Sjögren’s Syndrome is a systemic autoimmune disease that affects the entire body, particularly causing dryness in eyes and mouth, and can lead to other complications like fatigue, chronic pain, and major organ involvement.
The most common symptoms include dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, joint pain, swollen salivary glands, skin rashes, vaginal dryness, persistent dry cough, and prolonged fatigue. Symptoms vary and should be discussed with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis.
Sjögren’s Syndrome predominantly affects women, with nine out of ten patients being female. The average age of diagnosis is in the late 40s, but it can occur at any age in both sexes.
Sjögren’s Syndrome can be challenging to diagnose as its symptoms often mimic those of other conditions like menopause, allergies, or other autoimmune diseases. The average time from symptom onset to diagnosis is around three years.
Diagnosis can be complex and usually involves a combination of physical exams, blood tests, eye tests, dental checkups, urinalysis, and possibly biopsies, as well as ruling out other conditions.
Rheumatologists primarily manage Sjögren’s Syndrome, but patients may also see eye care specialists, dentists, and other specialists depending on their complications.
There is currently no cure for Sjögren’s Syndrome. Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and may include prescription medicines for dry eye and mouth, over-the-counter products for dryness, and immunosuppressive medications for internal organ manifestations.
In Sjögren’s Syndrome, the immune system attacks the glands that produce moisture, particularly the lacrimal (tear) and salivary (saliva) glands, leading to dryness in the eyes and mouth. Other areas like the skin, sinuses, airways, and vaginal tissues can also be affected.
Research on Sjögren’s Syndrome includes studies on the immune system, autoimmunity, genetics, and connective tissue diseases. Clinical research focuses on understanding symptoms, effective treatments, and improving quality of life.
Complications can include an increased risk of oral and eye infections, abnormal liver or kidney function, lymphomas, lung problems, and neurological issues like weakness or numbness.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and includes artificial tears, saliva producers, special mouthwash, vaginal moisturizers or lubricants, hormone therapy, pain relievers, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants.
There is no known way to prevent Sjögren’s Syndrome due to its unclear causes.
Management of symptoms is typically lifelong, with treatments helping to reduce symptom severity over time. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is crucial.
You should see your provider if you notice new symptoms or if existing symptoms worsen. Regular check-ups and monitoring changes in symptoms are important.
FAQs for Vasculitis
Vasculitis is an inflammation of the blood vessels. It can cause the vessel walls to thicken, reducing the passageway through the vessel, potentially leading to organ and tissue damage.
The exact cause of most forms of vasculitis remains unknown. Infections, genetic factors, and immune system diseases are suspected triggers.
While most forms of vasculitis are treatable, particularly if detected early, treatments are still imperfect. Ongoing research is needed for better treatments and potential cures.
Vasculitis is not typically a heritable disorder. It does not usually occur in more than one family member, and it is not contagious.
There’s no specific diet for vasculitis, but a balanced diet rich in protein and vegetables is advised. Avoiding excessive processed foods and sugars, especially for patients on steroids, is important.
The likelihood of vasculitis returning depends on the type. Some forms are self-limited, while others can recur frequently.
Being familiar with your own symptoms is crucial. Discuss any new or changing symptoms with your doctor and avoid altering medications without consultation.
Blood tests monitor for the return of vasculitis and ensure that medications are not causing side effects like liver irritation or low blood counts.
Yes, patients with vasculitis should get a flu shot annually. The “killed virus” vaccine is recommended over the “live attenuated” nasal spray version.
Prednisone can cause muscle weakness (myopathy), a common side effect of chronic use. This weakness is often most noticeable in the upper legs.
Living with Vasculitis can be challenging, potentially leading to stress, anxiety, or depression. It’s important to seek support from mental health professionals, support groups, or patient communities.
Yes, regular, low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga can help improve overall health and reduce symptoms. Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regime.
A balanced diet following general healthy eating guidelines is recommended. In some cases, dietary adjustments may be necessary based on individual health conditions and treatments.
Managing fatigue involves balancing activity with rest, maintaining a healthy diet, and possibly adjusting medications. Speak with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Pain management strategies may include medications, physical therapy, relaxation techniques, and heat or cold therapy. Consult with your healthcare provider for a tailored pain management plan.