Teresa Frąckowiak

Farmakoterapia chorób reumatycznych
2008-06-20

Pharmacotherapy of rheumatic diseases. Rheumatic diseases are connected with the musculo-skeletal system. According to the epidemiological data 25% of patients who attend a family doctor complain of some "rheumatic problem". Such complaints can be caused by rheumatic diseases but may also signal or accompany many other diseases. Painful and swollen joints may occur in infectious diseases or diseases of the hemopoietic system, or can be one of the symptoms of a malignant tumor. Some rheumatic diseases may be due to the pathological changes in other system or organs. Treatments for rheumatic diseases include rest and relaxation, exercises, proper diet, medication and instruction about the proper use of joints and ways to conserve energy. Other treatments include the use of pain relief methods and assistive devices, such splints or braces. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. The doctor and the patient work together to develop a treatment plan that helps the patient maintain or improve his or her lifestyle. Treatment plans usually combine several types of treatment and vary depending on the rheumatic condition and the patient. Here, I described the pathology and treatment of the following rheumatic diseases: rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout.