Arthritis

Question 1

What is the pain like in osteoarthritis, and the management

Answer 1

Pain is worse with movement and worse towards the end of the day.
Management is weight loss, aerobic exercise and physio. Analgesia (NSAIDs) or intra-articular steroid injections. In severe cases then joint replacement,

Question 2

What is reactive arthritis?

Answer 2

Triad of arthritis, urethritis and conjunctivitis.

Question 3

Describe features of rheumatoid arthritis

Answer 3

• Chronic inflammatory autoimmune condition.
• More common in women and smokers,
• Presents with joints which are swollen, red, warm and tender.
• Can use regular analgesia, intra-articular steroid injections or DMARDs.

Question 4

What is Sjogren’s syndrome?

Answer 4

Autoimmune condition causing reduced lacrimal and salivary secretion.

Question 5

What is spetic arthritis?

Answer 5

• Patient presents with acutely inflamed, tender joint with reduced range of movement and systemically unwell.
• Investigations include joint aspiration, blood tests and cultures and joint X ray.
• Treat with IV antibiotics

Question 6

What is compartment syndrome?

Answer 6

• Muscles become inflamed following trauma which increases pressure in muscle compartment.
• Symptoms include; severe pain, pulseless, paraesthesia, pallor and paralysis of limb
• Treated with urgent fasciotomy, analgesia and fluids