Rheumatic Diseases

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Rheumatic Diseases

Rheumatic diseases (/ruːˈmætɪk/; from Greek rheumatismos) are a diverse group of diseases that affect the joints, bones, and muscles. They are characterized by inflammation and loss of function of one or more connecting or supporting structures of the body. They can affect any part of the body, but most often they affect the joints, muscles, and skin.

Types of Rheumatic Diseases

There are more than 200 different types of rheumatic diseases. Some of the most common ones include:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. In some people, the condition can damage a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart and blood vessels.
  • Osteoarthritis: The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis involves damage to your joint's cartilage — the hard, slick coating on the ends of bones where they form a joint.
  • Lupus: Lupus is a systemic autoimmune disease that occurs when your body's immune system attacks your own tissues and organs.
  • Gout: Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone. It's characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness and tenderness in the joints, often the joint at the base of the big toe.
  • Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues.

Symptoms

The symptoms of rheumatic diseases depend on the specific disease, but they often include:

  • Pain and stiffness in the joints
  • Swelling in the joints or around the joints
  • Redness and warmth over the joints
  • Difficulty moving the joints
  • General fatigue

Treatment

Treatment for rheumatic diseases generally aims to reduce pain and prevent further damage to the joints or other parts of the body. Treatment options include:

  • Medications: These can include pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and drugs that suppress the immune system.
  • Physical therapy: This can help to improve strength and flexibility.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to replace damaged joints.

External links

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