Rheumatism is a systemic pathology, in which there is an inflammatory lesion of connective tissues in the body. The main cause of rheumatism is infection with hemolytic streptococcus group A, while for the development of the disease requires the presence of several other factors, among which is the genetic predisposition associated with a complex of disorders in the immune system. The exact mechanism of the appearance of pathology has not been established to this day.
Rheumatism is manifested by five major syndromes affecting the cardiovascular system, respiratory organs, cerebral vessels, joints and skin tissues. Digestive organs and kidneys are also less common. Further we will stop and we will consider in more details one of forms of rheumatism - rheumatism of joints, we shall get acquainted with its signs and methods of treatment.
How is rheumatism of the joints manifested?
As a rule, the symptoms of rheumatic joint damage begin to appear after a couple of weeks after the transferred pharyngitis, tonsillitis or other diseases of the nasopharynx caused by streptococcal infection. The disease can affect only two or three joints, but also more, up to all the joints of the limbs, spine, jaw. The most common lesion is the large joints - the hip, knee, ankle, elbow. In addition, it is noted that in most cases those joints that have been exposed to various adverse effects for a long time (excessive physical exertion, hypothermia, trauma) are the most susceptible.
When rheumatism of the joints, pathological changes are observed in their synovial membranes covering the articular surfaces from the inside, as a result of which an effusion to the joint usually occurs. The cartilage itself is not involved in the process, so joint deformities are not characteristic for this disease. Recognize the pathology of the following symptoms:
- redness and swelling of surrounding tissues in the area of affected joints;
- pain in the joints of different intensity, increasing with movement;
- limitation of mobility of joints;
- slight increase in body temperature.
Also, a person may experience symptoms of intoxication, such as general weakness, headache, nausea, and decreased appetite.
Treatment of joint rheumatism
Regardless of what kind of joints manifest symptoms of rheumatism (hip, knee or other), the treatment is similar, and, in general, used for this pill. The following drugs are prescribed:
- antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Penicillin or others);
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Nimesulide, etc.);
- glucocorticoids;
- immunosuppressants .
Treatment of rheumatism of the feet, ankle, knee and other large joints after the symptoms subsiding can be supplemented by physiotherapy methods:
- ultrasound;
- magnetotherapy;
- laser therapy and the like.
Also, we can recommend massage, therapeutic gymnastics, the use of warming local means.
Folk methods of treatment of joint rheumatism
With the initial symptoms of joint rheumatism, the use of folk remedies for treatment is quite effective. Here is one of the many recipes that help with this pathology.
Prescription of a medicinal broth
Ingredients:
- burdock roots - 200 g;
- the roots of elecampane are 20 g;
- water - 2 cups.
Preparation and use
Mix the raw materials and pour boiling water, boil for another ten minutes. After infusing the broth for an hour, filter out. Take three times a day for two tablespoons for sixty days.