In daily life, many people have heard of rheumatism, but the knowledge of it tends to remain a symptom of joint pain. Indeed, rheumatism is much more than simple arthritis. It is a complex and chronic disease that seriously affects the quality of life, and if it is not given attention and properly treated, it can lead to joint malformations, loss of function, and even other system complications, such as cardiovasculars, which significantly reduce the ability of the patient to provide for life and the quality of life.
The causes of rheumatism and arthritis are complex and have not yet been fully identified. It is considered to be related to the interplay of genetic factors, environmental factors (e.g. chronically in a damp and cold environment) and self-immunological disorders. The disease is usually hidden, and at first it may be felt only slightly sour, rigid, especially when the joint wakes up in the morning when it is inflexible and will take some time to mitigate, which is the so-called “morning freeze”. As the conditions develop, the pain increases, the joints swell and heat, and the range of activities is clearly restricted, and even simple clothing, hair combs and pens are difficult to complete when severe.
The diagnosis of rheumatism is not based solely on a single examination, and doctors need to take into account the patient ‘ s symptoms, blood tests (e.g., rheumatological factors, anti-accumulator antibodies, etc.) and joint imaging (e.g., X-ray, MRI, etc.) results. Moreover, because their symptoms are easily confused with other joint diseases, accurate diagnosis is essential, which is the basis for effective treatment programmes.
At present, while rheumatism cannot be fully treated, early diagnosis and treatment can effectively control the development of the condition, mitigate symptoms and improve the quality of life of patients. Treatment methods include, inter alia, drug treatment, physical treatment and rehabilitation training. Drug treatment is at the core, with generic drugs such as non-mixed anti-inflammatory drugs, which can quickly reduce arthritis and pain; improved rheumatism, which can slow the progress of the disease; and new medicines such as biological agents, which have a significant impact on some hard-to-treat patients. At the same time, physiotherapy, such as heat dressing, massages, acupuncture, etc., promotes local blood circulation, relieves muscle spasm and reduces pain. Patients themselves also need to cooperate actively in rehabilitation training, maintaining the level of joint activity and muscle strength, such as moderate joint stretching, walking, swimming, etc., with care to avoid overwork and joint damage.
Although rheumatism is a difficult disease, as long as patients remain optimistic, adhere to long-term norms of treatment, work closely with doctors and manage their daily lives, work and learn as normal people, so that life can be re-emerged and no longer be overshadowed by the shadows of disease.
