How can the pain and erosion of joints be reduced at 45?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am seeking advice about a joint issue that has been troubling me for the past six months. I am a 45-year-old chef, and both of my wrists and finger joints are swollen and extremely painful. My hands have started to look different, with my fingers drifting outward and changing their alignment. Bloodwork shows an RF of 145 and a sed rate of 52. I have unintentionally lost 20 pounds, and I feel constantly exhausted. Each morning, the stiffness in my joints lasts for about four hours, making it almost impossible to hold my kitchen tools, which is essential for my work. Recent X-rays showed erosions in my joints.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

According to your description, you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, symmetrical, inflammatory autoimmune disease that initially affects small joints, progressing to larger joints and eventually involving the skin, eyes, heart, kidneys, and lungs. Over time, the bone and cartilage in the joints may be destroyed, and tendons and ligaments can weaken. This damage to the joints causes deformities and bone erosion, often resulting in significant pain for the patient. Common symptoms of RA include morning stiffness in the affected joints lasting more than 30 minutes, fatigue, fever, weight loss, and joints that are tender, swollen, and warm. Rheumatoid nodules may also form under the skin.

The goals of treatment for RA are to reduce joint inflammation and pain, maximize joint function, and prevent joint destruction and deformity. Treatment typically includes a combination of medications such as steroids, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory drugs, along with weight-bearing exercises, patient education about the disease, and adequate rest.

I suggest you consult a physiotherapist to guide you on appropriate exercises. I also suggest you visit a nearby rheumatologist who can provide more personalized guidance.

I hope this has helped you.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.