Indore, April 10, 2024. In today's fast-paced life, various kinds of diseases are spreading. Many people suffer from these diseases, yet they lack awareness. Besides being more prevalent among people, another concern is the lack of knowledge among them. For example, rheumatological diseases, commonly known as arthritis or rheumatism. To increase awareness about these diseases and dispel misconceptions among people, the Indian Rheumatology Association has declared April as Awareness Month. According to Dr. Gautam Raj Punjabi, Consultant Rheumatologist at Medanta Superspecialty Hospital in Indore, "Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. It mistakenly attacks its own cells and tissues due to an immune system malfunction. Symptoms of this disease can begin to appear many years before antibodies form in the blood. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not yet known, but several factors such as genetic and environmental factors, including smoking and infections (viral and bacterial), are considered. These factors produce antibodies ( for example, such as rheumatoid factor) and damage joints and tissues through autoimmune processes in various ways. Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-lasting, systemic, and inflammatory disease characterized by pain and swelling in multiple joints, along with warmth in affected and inflamed joints. Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 1-1.5% of the population and is a major cause of chronic inflammatory arthritis. It affects women 2-3 times more than men, especially those in the age group of 40-60 years, although it can affect individuals at any age." Dr. Punjabi explained the symptoms and treatment options for rheumatological diseases, saying, "Patients usually complain of pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints of the hands and feet, which if not treated promptly, can lead to deformities in the fingers, affected joints, and hinder daily activities. Rheumatoid arthritis is not limited to joint pain alone. If left untreated, it can not only damage joints and bones but also affect the eyes, skin, lungs, heart, and nervous system. The diagnosis of arthritis/rheumatism is usually made by testing for antibodies in the blood (rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, for example). Rheumatoid arthritis cannot be completely cured. However, it can be controlled with caution and medication. Treatment of the disease involves stoppage of smoking if present, initiation and continuation of Disease modifying anti rheumatic drugs (oral or injectable). Perform active physiotherapy twice a day, including exercises that move and strengthen all joints. Regular check-ups and treatment for other diseases or complications associated with rheumatological diseases, such as heart disease, bone weakening, cancer, and kidney disease, are essential. Medical science has advanced considerably, and today's world has new drugs available that can be effective for patients with severe symptoms or those not responding to traditional DMARDs. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not ignore them and consult a rheumatologist as soon as possible."