How is rheumatism properly treated?
Rheumatism is a chronic self-immunological disease that causes serious damage to the joint and affects the quality of life of patients. The correct treatment is as follows:
I. Early diagnosis and assessment
Timely and accurate diagnosis is the first step in treatment. In the event of joint pain, swelling and, in particular, symmetrical small joints suffering from stress, accompanied by early morning rigidities (hard joints after getting up in the morning, restricted movement, lasting more than an hour), they should be referred to the Rheumatizing Immunology Section of the hospital as soon as possible. The doctor conducts a comprehensive assessment of the condition by means of a detailed examination of the history of the disease, the medical examination and a combination of blood tests (e.g., rheumatist factors, anti-accumulator antibodies, etc.), video tests (e.g., X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, etc.) to determine the severity of the disease and to provide the basis for the development of a follow-up treatment programme.
II. Drug treatment
– Non-paralytic anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These are quick to relieve joint pain, swelling and so forth. However, they do not control the progress of the disease, but rather serve to treat it. The use shall be made with regard to the side effects of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular, etc., and shall be justified on the recommendation of the doctor.
– Improved rheumatism (DMARDs): is the core drug for the treatment of rheumatitis, which slows the destruction of the joint and controls the development of the condition. Commonly used are ammonium butterflies, fluorometts, nitrous sulfur, etc. The indicators are regularly reviewed so that doctors can adjust their treatment programmes in a timely manner.
– Biological preparations: this is an emerging therapeutic drug in recent years, which has had a significant impact on some of the most difficult cases. For example, tumour cause of death, white cytogen-6. Biological agents are able to intervene more precisely in response to outbreaks of rheumatism, but at relatively high prices, and are used in strict compliance with medical guidance, taking into account such side effects as possible infections.
III. Physicotherapy
Physicotherapy can be used as an assistive treatment, helping to alleviate joint symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients. Common physiotherapy methods include:
– Heat dressing: Thermal transfer relaxes the muscles around the joint, promotes blood circulation and reduces pain. Hot water bags, hot towels, etc. can be used for hot dressing for 15 – 20 minutes at a time and can be carried out many times a day.
– Massage: a professional masseur or, under the supervision of a doctor, a proper massage by the family, which relieves muscle stress and improves joint activity.
– Acupuncture: The acupuncture also has some effect on the reduction of joint pain by stimulating a specific lacuna and regulating human circulation.
IV. Rehabilitation training
Rehabilitation training is essential during a stable period. Through targeted joint activity training, muscle force training, etc., joint flexibility can be maintained to prevent joint rigidity and malformation. For example, the extension of the finger joint, the extension of the knee joint and leg lift training. Training should be gradual and avoid overworking and damage to joints.
Periodic review
In the course of the treatment, the patient is subject to periodic review according to a doctor ‘ s arrangement, usually every 1 – 3 months. The review includes blood tests, video tests, etc., so that doctors can keep abreast of the progress of the situation, adjust the treatment programme and ensure its effectiveness.
The correct treatment of rheumatism requires a combination of methods, and patients should actively cooperate with doctors and adhere to long-term treatment in order to effectively control their development.