Rheumatoid Arthritis Specialist
Rheumatoid arthritis affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the most common types of autoimmune diseases. This chronic inflammatory disorder primarily targets the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of mobility. In addition to the joints, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs, heart, and eyes.
At Maiden Lane Medical in Manhattan, New York, we understand the challenges that come with living with rheumatoid arthritis, and we offer comprehensive care to help manage its symptoms and improve our patient’s quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
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What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. This condition can also affect other parts of the body, including the lungs, heart, and eyes. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of the joints, which leads to joint damage over time.
If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint damage, which can lead to a loss of mobility and disability. Rheumatoid arthritis can also increase the risk of developing interstitial lung disease, a condition that affects the tissue and space around the air sacs in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe.
What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is not fully understood, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues.
In RA, the immune system attacks the synovial membrane, which is the lining of the joints. This results in inflammation and damage to the joint tissues, including the cartilage and bone. Over time, joint damage can cause deformities and disabilities.
One of the key features of RA is the presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) in the blood. RF is an antibody that is produced by the immune system and targets a type of protein called immunoglobulin G (IgG). The presence of RF can indicate a higher likelihood of developing RA, but not everyone with RA has RF, and not everyone with RF develops RA.
What Are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis?
The symptoms of RA can vary from person to person, but some common rheumatoid arthritis symptoms include:
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Inflammation in the lungs, heart and/or eyes
As inflammatory arthritis, RA can cause damage to the joints and other tissues over time. This can lead to joint deformities, reduced range of motion, and decreased quality of life.
Early diagnosis and treatment of RA can help prevent or minimize these complications. If you are experiencing any of these rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation.
How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?
What Is the Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Medication
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Joint Replacement
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Get the Help You Need
Are you or a loved one experiencing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling? These symptoms could be signs of rheumatoid arthritis.
At Maiden Lane Medical in Manhattan, NY, we specialize in diagnosing and treating rheumatoid arthritis. Our team of experienced physicians and healthcare professionals use the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options to develop individualized care plans that meet each patient’s unique needs.
Contact our medical practice today to schedule a consultation and get the expert care you deserve! Together, we can help manage your symptoms, slow joint damage, and improve your quality of life.
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