Case study ( 6737 views as of December 22, 2024 )
Mary is a 52-year-old nurse who has had slow onset of pain and swelling in her wrists and hands. She is now finding she needs to get up an hour earlier so she can get ready to go to work. Mary is a single mother and needs to keep working and also keep up with her two teenage boys who are involved in sports. Her family doctor has done some blood tests and tells her that her blood has elevated markers of inflammation. She is waiting to see an arthritis specialist. In the interim, her family doctor started her on a medication that is used to treat malaria. Mary has read there are concerns about vision going on anti-malarials long term. She has also been to see a physiotherapist.
Mary could benefit her condition by seeing a rheumatologist and an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Her doctor may also refer Mary to a physiotherapist or occupational therapist and consider pilates to design a plan to maintain her mobility. A conversation with a pharmacist can help answer Mary's questions about her medications. A dietitian could provide Mary with a meal plan; eating the right foods can help ease arthritis inflammation.
Author: Dr. John Wade
Conversation based on: Rheumatoid Arthritis Causing Wrist and Hand Pain " Mary a 52-year-old nurse "
Rheumatoid Arthritis Causing Wrist and Hand Pain " Mary a 52-year-old nurse "