Arthritis

Nearly 20% of adults struggle with arthritis, as there are more than 100 types. At Internists of North Dallas in Irving, Texas, board-certified internal medicine physician Nabila Aslam, MD, treats joint pain, inflammation, stiffness, and other bothersome symptoms of arthritis. Schedule an evaluation by phone or request one online today for relief from arthritis discomfort.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that affects the joints, causing swelling, stiffness, and, oftentimes, pain. It can occur at any age but is very common in geriatric patients. 

There are numerous forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis — all affecting the joints. Treatment with Dr. Aslam at Internists of North Dallas offers relief and helps prevent worsening joint damage.

Which symptoms can arthritis cause?

Arthritis can lead to the following signs and symptoms:

• Joint pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Warmth
• Redness
• Decreased range of motion
• Visible joint deformities
• Reduced mobility 

You may not have noticeable symptoms in the early stages of arthritis, but symptoms typically progress over time when not treated. See Dr. Aslam at the first sign of new or worsening arthritis symptoms. 

What are the risk factors for arthritis?

Anyone can develop arthritis, but its common risk factors include:

• Aging
• Family history of arthritis
• Obesity
• Previous joint injury

Adopting healthy habits, such as eating nutritious foods, getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, and maintaining an ideal weight, may lessen the risk of arthritis or its severe symptoms. 

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Diagnosing arthritis involves a discussion about your symptoms and medical history, physical exam, and blood, urine, or joint fluid tests. Dr. Aslam also checks your vital signs and may suggest X-rays, an ultrasound, an MRI, a CT scan, or other imaging procedures to determine the extent of joint damage present.

She customizes an arthritis treatment plan that offers outstanding, long-lasting results and the best quality of life possible at every age.

How is arthritis treated?

Treating arthritis to lessen joint pain often consists of making healthy lifestyle adjustments, taking oral medications, or receiving joint injections. Physical therapy and ice or heat packs are also helpful. In some cases, surgery is needed to repair severely damaged joints. Dr. Aslam offers referrals whenever necessary if you’re a candidate for joint surgery.

She may recommend you try dietary supplements, complete low-intensity exercises, alter your diet, maintain a healthy weight, and do stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, massage, or tai chi. If you have difficulty with weight loss, Dr. Aslam can help you achieve success. 

Schedule an arthritis evaluation at Internists of North Dallas by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.