Rheumatic diseases encompass a range of conditions that are generally characterized by inflammation, pain, and decreased function in the muscles, joints, or fibrous tissue. The term “rheumatic” refers to attributes or conditions related to rheumatism. The adverb form, “rheumatically,” describes anything that occurs in a manner related to rheumatism.
A common condition within the spectrum of rheumatic diseases is rheumatism, defined as any of various conditions marked by inflammation or pain in muscles, joints, or fibrous tissue. This includes muscular rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis, both featuring prominently in discussions around rheumatic conditions.
Another specific condition is rheumatic fever, a disease often associated with the presence of hemolytic streptococci in the body. It’s named for its common symptoms, which include fever and joint pain similar to rheumatism.
The field of rheumatology is dedicated to the diagnosis and management of these disorders. Rheumatologists focus on diseases that involve inflammation in bones, muscles, joints, and internal organs.
Rheumatic diseases are more than just aches and pains. They represent a group of inflammatory, autoimmune, and degenerative diseases that can affect the entire body. Symptoms often include loss of motion in joints, inflammation, and pain in the affected areas.
Rheumatic diseases are sometimes grouped under the term “arthritis,” as many of them involve autoimmune or inflammatory processes that attack joints, muscles, bones, and other body systems. For example, rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just the joints, potentially damaging skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.
The complexity and variety of rheumatic diseases necessitate comprehensive care and a deep understanding of these conditions for effective treatment and management.
