Houston Arthritis Treatment
The physicians at Rheumatology Associates of Houston are well versed in treating the arthritis and related autoimmune conditions, including:
In order to provide treatment for those experiencing rheumatoid symptoms, it is important to have an accurate diagnosis. The physicians at Rheumatology Associates of Houston are highly trained specialists. Furthermore, it is our goal to educate our patients and the world-at-large about this disease and related disorders.
What is arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis primarily causes joint inflammation, but may also affect the muscle, tissue, and bone surrounding the joint. Some of these effects may include proliferation of the joint lining or structural damage to the cartilage, bone, or ligaments. The severity of Rheumatoid Arthritis varies, ranging from self limited to destructive arthritis. Mild arthritis may cause pain, but destructive arthritis can lead to join deformity, joint dysfunction or the functional decline of an individual.
There are also current therapies available for arthritis but they do not provide a cure to the illness. Medications and therapy are extremely helpful in providing some goals of treatments. These medications are referred to as Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs or DMARDs. The medication may be used alone or with treatments to achieve desired goals.
While arthritis is often a genetic condition, it can develop due to injury, metabolic abnormalities, and even infection. Cases of rheumatoid arthritis may vary. It can affect other parts of the body, including organs, skin, blood, and more.
Some symptoms of arthritis may include pain and limited function of joints. You may also experience joint stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth. Tenderness of the inflamed area may also be present. Since arthritis is classified as a rheumatic disease, some symptoms may affect various organs of the body that are not directly related to the joints. With certain forms of arthritis, some patients may also experience fevers, gland swelling, weight loss, fatigue, and other symptoms related to abnormalities of organs such as the heart, lungs, or kidneys.
Being informed is just the first step to fighting this disease. An experienced physician can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and an individual treatment plan. Call us today at (713) 667-8292 to schedule your comprehensive screening.