This splendid volume is easily understandable, uses real-life situations
as examples and is far more up-to-the-minute than other such books. From
sexuality to surgery, it offers practical and science-based
advice.--Charles M. Plotz, M.D., Editor-in-Chief, Rheuma21st.com
Your complete guide to understanding and living well with rheumatoid
arthritis
If you or someone close to you suffers from rheumatoid arthritis (RA),
this book is a powerful tool you don't want to be without. Two of the
authors are physicians at the Hospital for Special Surgery, one of the
nation's oldest and best orthopedic research hospitals. Its purpose is
to arm you with the information you need to take charge of your disease
management and work with your doctors to develop a treatment program
that's right for your lifestyle and life goals.
In plain English, the authors demystify rheumatoid arthritis-its causes,
progression, and various effects on the human body-and decode the often
perplexing language that doctors use to describe RA and its diagnosis
and treatment. They explain the various treatment and pain management
options available to you and ways to discuss them with your doctor. The
authors also include the true stories of RA patients whose tales offer
encouragement and powerful insights for dealing with the difficult
psychological and lifestyle issues RA sufferers face. Their expert
advice and guidance covers a range of topics of vital concern to people
affected by RA, including:
* Old, new, and emerging drug therapies, including gold,
corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants
* Analgesics and anti-inflammatories
* Alternative treatment strategies
* Nutrition, diet, and exercise for RA
* Vitamins and supplements, including glucosamine and Evening Primrose
oil
* Managing crucial lifestyle issues such as sports, travel, and sex
* Pregnancy and RA
* Alleviating depression and pain
* Surgical options, including joint replacement therapy
