Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment in Panama City, FL

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease. It affects about 3 million Americans. In RA, the body’s defense system attacks the joints. This causes long-lasting pain, swelling and stiffness. Without care, it can lead to loss of joint use and disability. Our team offers rheumatoid arthritis treatment in Panama City to stop that damage early.

RA most often starts between ages 25 and 45, or after age 65. People with RA also have a higher risk of some blood cancers, such as lymphoma. RA and the steroid medicines used to treat it can also weaken bones, so read about our osteoporosis treatment in Panama City too.

Common RA Symptoms

• Pain, swelling and stiffness in the small joints of the hands and feet
• Swollen knuckles or fingers
• Stiffness in the morning
• Feeling very tired
• Fever and weight loss
• Red, sore and swollen eyes

How RA Is Diagnosed

• We look at swelling and stiffness in the hands and feet. Blood tests then check for certain antibodies.
• X-rays track joint damage over time.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Options

• Steroids by mouth or by shot
• NSAIDs
• DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs)
• Biologics (medicines given by shot)
• Physical therapy

RA care has improved a great deal in the past 10 to 15 years. This is a hopeful time for people with RA. Today, our goal is full remission and no more joint damage. New medicines keep coming, so this goal is very realistic. The most important step is early diagnosis and care by a rheumatologist. That is what protects your joints the most.