Rheumatoid polyarthritis is a serious systemic disease, which causes simultaneous inflammation of several joints, accompanied by destruction of articular cartilage and bone tissue. Most often this disease affects the joints of the hands and feet, but it can affect large joints, as well as other systems and organs.
Causes of rheumatoid polyarthritis
The development of the inflammatory process and further pathological changes in this disease are associated with the reaction of the immune system, which is reconstructed under the influence of some provoking factors:
- supercooling;
- allergic and toxic reactions;
- stress;
- metabolic disorders.
However, the exact nature of the origin of pathology is unknown. The resulting reaction of the immune system is accompanied by the formation of aggregated immunoglobulins, which begin to attack articular cartilage and adjacent tissues, causing subsequently irreversible changes.
Symptoms of rheumatoid polyarthritis
The first symptoms of the disease, as a rule, are insignificant:
- increased sensitivity of joints to weather changes;
- morning stiffness of the joints;
- slight pain in the joints;
- slight swelling of the joints;
- decreased appetite and weight.
In the future, there are signs such as an increase in body temperature, general weakness, excessive sweating, muscle pain. Various pathologies of internal organs can arise.
Progression of rheumatoid polyarthritis leads to a noticeable deformation of joints, limitation of their mobility, atrophy of surrounding muscle tissues. A characteristic manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis is the deformity of the joints in the form of a "walrus fin" or "neck of a swan". Rheumatoid polyarthritis of the legs leads to deformities and deflection in the direction of the toes, the development of flat feet .
Diagnosis of rheumatoid polyarthritis
When diagnosing a complete examination of the body. The following laboratory and instrumental studies are indicative:
- biochemical blood test ;
- serological examination of blood serum, nodules and intra-articular fluid;
- Ultrasound of the joints and organs of the abdominal cavity;
- X-ray diagnosis and MRI of the joints and spine.
How to treat rheumatoid polyarthritis?
Modern treatment of rheumatoid polyarthritis, as a systemic disease, is based on an integrated approach, which includes such directions:
- arresting the process of destruction and deformation of joints;
- elimination of the inflammatory process;
- improvement of blood supply and nutrition of articular tissues;
- anesthesia;
- increased local immunity;
- stimulation of the processes of regeneration of the joint tissues.
It is carried out pharmacotherapy and physiotherapy treatment. Acupuncture sessions, pharmacopuncture, electrophoresis, laser therapy, shock wave therapy, magnetotherapy, massage and therapeutic gymnastics can be prescribed. Medicamentous treatment of rheumatoid polyarthritis includes the use of the following drugs:
- corticosteroids;
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
- antirheumatic drugs;
- analgesics.
Treatment can be performed in outpatient or inpatient settings. If conservative measures do not bring improvement,
Nutrition for rheumatoid polyarthritis
For the successful treatment of rheumatoid polyarthritis, it is important to follow a diet whose basic principles are:
- limiting the use of salt;
- refusal of sharp, smoked, marinated dishes and confectionery;
- compliance with the drinking regime - at least 2 liters of fluid per day;
- consumption of a large number of vegetables and fruits.