Question

Ms. W.P. is 42 years old and has had rheumatoid arthritis for 6 years. Her fingers are stiff and show slight ulnar deviation. She is now experiencing an exacerbation, and her wrists are red and swollen. She finds it to be painful when something such as clothing touches the skin over her wrists. Her elbows and knees are also stiff and painful, especially after she has been resting. She is feeling extremely tired and depressed and has not been eating well. 1. Explain the reasons for the appearance and the pain occurring at her wrists. 2. Describe the factors contributing to the stiff, deformed fingers. 3. Explain why some activity relieves the pain and stiffness of rheumatoid arthritis. 4. Describe several factors contributing to the systemic symptoms noted in Ms. W.P. 5. Explain how each of the following drugs acts in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (see Chapter 5): (a) NSAIDs, (b) glucocorticoids, (c) disease-modifying agents, and (d) biologic agents. 6. Predict the possible course of this disease in Ms. W.P.

Answer 1

1)it is due to rheumatoid arthritis.Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, which means it's caused by the immune system attacking healthy body tissue. ... If you have rheumatoid arthritis, your immune system mistakenly sends antibodies to the lining of your joints, where they attack the tissue surrounding the joint.

2)Risk factors for the development ofdeformities include high levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation in the body, andrheumatoid factor (RF), an antibody (a special protein made by the immune system) present in the blood of many people with RA.

3)For people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA),exercise can be hugely beneficial for relieving pain and joint stiffness. Exercising and stretching can be particularly helpful during a flare. ... Exercise can reduce painful symptoms, improve joint function and flexibility, increase range of motion, and boost mood.Regular exercise can boost strength and flexibility in people who have rheumatoid arthritis. Stronger muscles can better support your joints, while improved flexibility can aid joint function.