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by Nathan Wei
While the most obvious symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis have to do with joint swelling and pain, there are multiple other problems that may occur that an arthritis specialist has to be constantly vigilant for.
For instance, rheumatoid arthritis can cause damage to the lungs and heart and be associated with significant damage to the skin and nerves. Also, it can cause serious problems with the eyes.
There a number of eye conditions that can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis… and its treatment. These include:
Treatment of dry eyes may include artificial tears and other eye lubricants. Patients who also have dry mouth can be treated with artificial saliva and mouth moisturizing agents. In addition, pilocarpine can be used. This drug should not be used in patients who also have glaucoma. Sometimes patients who are unresponsive to more conservative measures may require surgery.
Treatment of uveitis and episcleritis may include corticosteroid eye drops, cyclopegics (dilating drops), and anti-inflammatory medications. Often more aggressive systemic therapies are needed. In fact, the presence of significant eye inflammation in the form of uveitis, episcleritis, or Sjogren’s disease should be a warning signal that a more aggressive approach is needed.
Patients who have rheumatoid arthritis and experience dry eyes, eye pain or redness, blurred vision, excessive tearing, or light sensitivity, should see an ophthalmologist for evaluation immediately. Close and careful consultation with a rheumatologist is strongly advised.
About the Author
Nathan Wei, MD FACP FACR is a rheumatologist and Director of the Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. For more info: Arthritis Treatment
Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=169586&ca=Medicines+and+Remedies
The term “water on the knee” is a general phrase that describes what happens when fluid or water collects in or around your knee joint. This swelling may also be called edema. There are different reasons why people may have “water on the knee”, for example, overuse, trauma, or other significant underlying conditions may be reasons why you have this fluid collection at your knee joint. Now what can you do about it? – Read On…
We are sure you may be wondering what this term means, although you have heard it before…The term “water on the knee” is a generic term that describes the accumulation of excess fluid (edema) in or around the knee joint. As a result of a trauma, overuse, or other underlying conditions or disease, water on the knee may exist.
Often times, when a person has water on the knee, the underlying condition is arthritis. The term arthritis means “joint inflammation”. People also refer to arthritis as being “joint pain” as well. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA), which effects over 27 million people a year (mostly women), while rheumatoid arthritis (RA) effects over two million adults. Most of them being women over the age of 45. Although these two types of arthritis effect millions of people, and are the two most common types of arthritis, there are over 100 different types of arthritis.
When this fluid is removed from the joint, an individual can have pain relief. Pain relief can be subsided when this fluid returns. It is always important to see your physician regarding this procedure.
You also may have “water on the knee” due a traumatic injury. Fluid or blood can accumulate in the knee joint as a result of a meniscus tear or ligament injury. Moreover, when an individual suffers an ACL tear, they may have also torn small blood vessels which can cause fluid to accumulate in and around their knee joint. Prepatellar bursitis can also cause water on the knee.
To avoid having water on the knees, individuals should consider seeing their physician on a regular basis, to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is also important to make sure individuals are avoiding activities that result in physical contact with their knees. Acetaminophen is a pain medication that you can use to reduce swelling. It is important to speak with your physician before taking any medication. Weight management can also take the stress off of your joints, which could result in water on the knees. Ice and elevation of your legs can also help to reduce the fluid build up.
The aforementioned options can help address the irritating pain and swelling in your knee, and should be considered; they can be of service to you. Moreover, the use of a low profile knee brace will help increase your knee stability and decrease pain. The meaningful support you need, can be provided by a knee brace during exercise or activities of daily living.
About the Author
Dr. Brace Company was formed by people that have studied braces, and know what they are talking about. Beware of the online salesment that knows nothing about braces, but wants to sell you one, which is unfortunately what you will find 99% of the time. Visit us online at http://www.drbraceco.com to find real brace specialists.
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_574798_23.html