Rheumatic and Autoimmune Disorders

Overview

Rheumatic disease stands for a collection of disorders that affect the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones, including a common condition known as arthritis. Conversely, autoimmune disorders affect tissues and any organ in the body. An autoimmune disorder arises when the immune system attacks surrounding tissue and organs.

 

Types of rheumatic and autoimmune disorders

  • Osteoarthritis
    Osteoarthritis is the most widespread type of arthritis, affecting most of the general population. The condition occurs when the cartilage that covers the tips of the bones degenerates over time. Osteoarthritis runs the risk of damaging any joint. However, osteoarthritis commonly affects joints in the spine, hips, knees and hands.
  • Gout
    Gout, a type of inflammatory arthritis, arises due to the accumulation of uric acid in the body. Normally, gout attacks a single joint at a time, usually the big toe. However, symptoms can worsen, which we call a "flare-up". Then, when the patient does not develop symptoms, we refer to this as “remission”.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
    Rheumatoid arthritis is another inflammatory disorder which prompts the immune system to attack healthy tissue by accident. As a result, inflammation occurs, causing parts of the body to swell up. In this case, the immune system fights against the joint lining (synovium). Rheumatoid arthritis attacks joints on either side of the body. The disorder can sometimes affect different parts of the body, such as the heart, eyes and circulatory system.
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)/Lupus
    Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)/Lupus is an autoimmune illness that occurs when the body attacks healthy tissue. As a result, the body is susceptible to widespread inflammation and damage that affects multiple organs. Several components, such as the kidneys, lungs, brain, joints and blood vessels, may be affected.
 

Treatment 

Treatment for rheumatic conditions includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and relieve discomfort. A corticosteroid such as prednisone can be taken orally or intravenously to manage symptoms of rheumatic illnesses. Surgery may be recommended to repair or replace the affected joint when the condition is far too advanced.

Treatment for autoimmune conditions is similar to rheumatic disorders. For example, Dr Kapp will prescribe anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids, pain-relief medication and immunosuppressant medication to help manage your symptoms.

FAQ

  1. What are the common signs of an autoimmune disease?
    Typical signs of an autoimmune disorder include the following:
    • Tiredness
    • Joint pain
    • Swelling in affected joints
    • Stomach pain
    • Digestive problems
    • Recurrent fever

  1. Can autoimmune diseases be treated?
    There is no definite cure for autoimmune disease. Instead, symptoms can only be managed through the use of prescribed medications.

  1. What is the primary cause of rheumatic disease?
    Primarily, rheumatism occurs when the immune system turns against itself. So instead, healthy tissue is targeted.