Dr. Mamatha P. Venkatesh

Sometimes, during the course of a normal and happy life, one may experience slight joint pains, which may soon become very bothering . These may or may not be accompanied by swelling at the joints. Fatigue, feverishness, decreased appetite, loss of weight also may occur in some people.
What does one do ?
It is essential to see a Rheumatologist, as soon as possible .
The Rheumatologist will do a thorough physical examination and then a few important and relevant tests.
Unlike a few years back, today we have several effective and affordable drugs in our armamentarium for Immune Mediated illnesses, including for joint pains, as in Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis, Psoriatic arthritis, Scleroderma, SLE – Systemic Lupus erythematosus etc.
Early initiation of appropriate therapy in the right dosages is of paramount importance, to prevent joint damage and therefore deformation of the affected parts, which is a major reason for morbidity. Deformity and disability leads to emotionaI and psychological trauma and depression. Participation in social and community activities becomes a burden and a slow alienation and isolation sets in.