Awareness about Rheumatology is important

World Arthritis Day is being celebrated today with the theme, ‘It’s In Your Hands, Take Action’. Speaking to CityTAB, renowned Rheumatologist at KIMS in Secunderabad Dr Chandrasekhar Mouli reiterates on the importance of early diagnosis and awareness including busting of longstanding myths about the disease.

“Last year we conducted a walk through which we educated people about the myths about the disease. This year a free Rheumatology camp and a 50 percent discount on investigations is being conducted at the Rheumatology department, KIMS,” informs Dr Mouli. Citing reasons for the disease, he says, “The initial reason would be improper immune system. Developing an auto-immune disease makes a person at a greater risk for Arthritis.”

Recommending on the diet factor, the doctor clarifies about restrictions. “There is no diet restriction for patients with Arthritis except in ‘Gout’. Patients with Gout should avoid high protein foods, which include sea food and should also avoid mushroom and beans if in vegetarians.” So, what could be possible treatments for the disease? “Two types of treatment are available for patients with Arthritis.

One is Oral disease modifying, where medical steroids like Hydroxy Chloroquine and Salpha Salazine are given. The second type of treatment is by biologic drugs, the injectable drugs. Sometimes both the methods are used for treatment,” explains the doctor. Negligence of Arthritis would lead into complex problems, where other parts in the body would also have an effect.

“Sometimes when you don’t take proper medication or neglect Arthritis, the patient may develop neurotic disorders too,” cautions the doctor. “Sometimes you also need to replace the joint if the medication is not taken properly.” adds Dr Mouli. Arthritis is a serious issue. However, the provisions for detection and treatment across the country seem to be inadequate.

“As of now we have only 500 Rheumatologists across the country. Treatment for Arthritis is available in limited centers. We need to set a target to create awareness about this disease, so that patients will get to know about this disease along with treatment and myths,” concludes the doctor.

Common Myths

x Rest helps in curing arthritis

x People with arthritis should not exercise

x Sex is forbidden

x Children do not get arthritis

x Arthritis is a modern disease caused by pollution and chemicals

x Arthritis is minor aches and pains

x Arthritis is an old person’s disease

x Arthritis is a hereditary disease

By Divya Vallabhaneni