Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term illness that causes pain, swelling, and irritation in the joints. But it doesn’t just affect joints, it can also harm other parts of the body like the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. RA happens when your immune system, which usually fights off sickness, mistakenly attacks your own body. RA can also cause problems in other parts of the body, not just the joints. The good news is that new medicines have made treatment much better. Still, RA can cause lasting damage and raise the risk of heart disease if not managed well. Rheumatoid arthritis is most common in people between the ages of 30 and 60, but it can happen at any age. Women are more likely to get it earlier, often between their 30s and 50s, while men tend to get it a bit later in life. There's also a type called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis that can affect children, though that's less common.
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is caused when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy tissues, especially the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect anyone, but some people are more likely to develop it than others. Certain risk factors include:
What are the Main Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
One of the earliest and most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis is joint pain accompanied by swelling. This discomfort typically starts in the smaller joints, such as those in the fingers, hands, and wrists, and it usually affects joints on both sides of the body symmetrically. The pain is often persistent and can become more intense during flare-ups, which are periods when the disease activity increases.
People with RA often experience stiffness in their joints, especially after waking up in the morning or after long periods of rest. Unlike the stiffness in osteoarthritis, which tends to wear off quickly, RA-related stiffness can last for 30 minutes or more, significantly limiting mobility and making it difficult to start the day.
Fatigue and General Malaise:
Fatigue is a systemic symptom of RA and may occur even before joint symptoms appear. It can be profound and persistent, often interfering with daily activities and lowering quality of life. This tiredness is due to chronic inflammation and the body’s ongoing immune response. Many people with RA also report a general sense of malaise or feeling unwell, which contributes to reduced productivity and emotional distress.
Low-grade fever is another symptom linked to the inflammatory nature of RA. While high fevers are uncommon, a persistent mild elevation in body temperature can be a sign of disease activity. Additionally, unintentional weight loss can occur due to chronic inflammation and muscle wasting, as the body uses more energy during periods of active inflammation.
Joint Deformity and Loss of Function:
Over time, if RA is not well controlled, it can lead to permanent joint damage and deformities. This results from the erosion of bone and cartilage and can cause fingers to bend or deviate abnormally. As the disease progresses, joint function can deteriorate, leading to a reduced range of motion, muscle weakness, and difficulties with daily tasks such as gripping, walking, or dressing.
Rheumatoid arthritis doesn't just affect the joints—it can also involve other organs. Some people may develop rheumatoid nodules (firm lumps under the skin near joints), lung inflammation or fibrosis, heart problems, dry or inflamed eyes, and anemia. These extra-articular symptoms highlight the systemic nature of RA and the importance of holistic treatment approaches.
What are the Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) progresses in four stages:
Stage 1: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) starts with swelling around your joints. You might feel some pain and stiffness, but X-rays won’t show any damage to your bones yet.
Stage 2: The swelling starts to wear down the cartilage—the smooth part that helps your joints move easily. You’ll probably feel more stiff and might not be able to move your joints as well as before.
Stage 3: The damage gets worse and starts to affect your bones. Your pain and stiffness will increase, and moving your joints will get harder. You might even start to notice your joints looking different.
Stage 4: Even though the swelling may slow down or stop, your joints keep getting worse. You’ll have serious pain, swelling, stiffness, and it’ll be very hard to move the affected joints.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Doctors diagnose Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) through a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, and imaging studies to ensure an accurate and early diagnosis. The process usually begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, during which a doctor looks for signs of joint swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion, especially in a symmetrical pattern. Blood tests play a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis.
These include tests for markers of inflammation such as Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP), as well as specific autoantibodies like Rheumatoid Factor (RF) and Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies. The presence of RF and anti-CCP is highly suggestive of RA and helps distinguish it from other types of arthritis. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds are also used to detect joint damage, bone erosion, and synovial inflammation. These imaging studies not only aid in diagnosis but also help assess the extent of disease progression. By combining these tools, doctors can make a more accurate and early diagnosis, allowing for timely treatment to prevent joint destruction and manage symptoms effectively.
What are the Treatment Methods for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis has no cure, but several treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve quality of life:
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Help reduce pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroids: Provide quick relief of inflammation but are used short-term due to side effects.
Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): Slow disease progression (e.g., methotrexate).
Biologic agents: Target specific parts of the immune system to control inflammation (e.g., TNF inhibitors).
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors: A newer class of oral medication for moderate to severe RA.
Therapy
Physical therapy: Improves joint flexibility, strength, and overall mobility.
Occupational therapy: Teaches ways to perform daily tasks without straining joints and may involve assistive devices.
Surgery
Used when joints are severely damaged or pain is unmanageable with medications and therapy.
Different Types of Surgeries for RA:
Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty)
Damaged parts of a joint (e.g., hip, knee) are replaced with artificial components.
The inflamed synovial lining of the joint is surgically removed to reduce pain and swelling.
Torn or damaged tendons around the joints are repaired to restore function and reduce pain.
Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)
Two or more bones in a joint are fused together to stabilize and reduce pain, often used for smaller joints like the wrist or ankle.
What are the Complications of Untreated Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Chronic inflammation erodes cartilage and bone, leading to deformities and loss of joint function over time.
Inflammation and some RA medications can weaken bones, increasing the risk of fractures and mobility issues.
Lung, Heart, or Eye Problems
RA can cause inflammation in organs like the lungs (e.g., interstitial lung disease), the heart (pericarditis), and the eyes (dryness, uveitis).
Swelling in the wrist can compress nerves, causing pain, tingling, and weakness in the hands and fingers.
Firm, painless lumps can form under the skin, especially near pressure points like the elbows or fingers.
What are the Advantages of Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment?
Treatment helps you:
Feel less pain and reduce swelling
Slow down joint damage
Move more freely and comfortably
Stay active and enjoy a better quality of life
Prevention for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Prevent permanent joint damage and deformities
Early treatment helps protect your joints from irreversible harm and maintains mobility.
Reduce the risk of heart and lung complications
Managing RA lowers inflammation, which can help protect vital organs like the heart and lungs.
Protect your bones from weakening and osteoporosis
Controlling RA can help preserve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
Maintain your energy and emotional well-being
Timely care can help you stay active, reduce fatigue, and support your mental health.
Recovery Tips After Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Recovering after rheumatoid arthritis treatment takes time and care.Following the right tips can help you heal faster, regain strength, and improve joint function.
Take your medication exactly as your doctor tells you
Keep moving with low-impact exercises
Eat nutritious, anti-inflammatory foods
Get plenty of sleep and rest when you need it
Work with therapists to build joint strength
Why Choose Artemis Hospital for Rheumatoid Arthritis in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospital in Gurgaon is known for its advanced care and experienced specialists in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
With state-of-the-art facilities and personalized treatment plans, it offers comprehensive support for managing RA effectively.
Here’s what makes us stand out:
Expert Specialists: Team of experienced rheumatologists, orthopedic doctors, and physiotherapists.
Advanced Facilities: Equipped with the latest technology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
comprehensive Care: Includes pain management, physical therapy, and diet support—all in one place.
personalized Approach: Customized treatment plans based on each patient’s condition and lifestyle.
Patient-Centered Care: Focus on comfort, education, and long-term health management.
To book an appointment with the top orthopedic surgeons for Rheumatoid Arthritis surgery at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Dheeraj Batheja
Consultant - Orthopaedics & Orthopaedic Surgery
Artemis Hospitals
FAQs
I have joint pain and stiffness in the morning. Could it be RA?
It could be. Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes is a common sign of RA. It's best to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Is rheumatoid arthritis the same as osteoarthritis?
No. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear over time, while RA is an autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks your joints.
Can young people get rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes. RA can affect people of all ages—even in their 20s or 30s. There's also a form called juvenile RA that affects children.
Is RA contagious? Can I pass it to someone?
No, RA is not contagious. You can’t catch it or spread it through contact or sharing items.
Can stress or food cause rheumatoid arthritis?
Not directly. But stress and a poor diet can make symptoms worse. RA is mostly caused by a mix of genetics and environmental triggers.
Do I need to go to a big city for RA treatment?
Not at all. Hospitals like Artemis in Gurgaon offer expert care, modern treatments, and personalized plans—everything you need, close to home.
Will I need surgery for RA?
Most people manage RA with medications and lifestyle changes. Surgery is only considered if joints are badly damaged and other treatments don't help.
Can I still exercise if I have RA?
Yes! Gentle exercises like walking, stretching, and swimming can help reduce stiffness and improve joint health. Just avoid overdoing it.
Will I be able to live a normal life with RA?
Absolutely. With the right treatment, many people with RA live full, active lives. Early diagnosis and proper care make a big difference.
Are home remedies or alternative treatments enough?
Some may help with symptoms, but they should never replace medical treatment. RA needs professional care to prevent long-term joint damage.
Whom should I consult for Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment?
Artemis Hospitals has some of the best orthopedicsurgeons in Gurgaon who offer advanced Rheumatoid Arthritis surgery with a high success rate. To know more, get in touch with us and
Who is the best Rheumatoid Arthritis specialist near me?
Artemis Hospitals has some of the best orthopedicsurgeons in Gurgaon who offer advanced Rheumatoid Arthritis surgery with a high success rate. To know more, get in touch with us.
Which is the best hospital for Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals offer advanced treatment in Gurgaon for patients planning to undergo RheumatoidArthritis surgery. To know more, contact us to book an appointment with some of the best orthopedic surgeons in Gurgaon.
Which factors affect the cost of Rheumatoid Arthritis surgery in Gurgaon?
Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment cost is influenced by factors like the type of surgery, hospital fees, surgeon's expertise, hospital bed, and diagnostic tests. To get a cost estimate, contact us to book an appointment with some of the best general surgeons in Gurgaon.
