Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease with inflammation of the joints, often symmetrically in the hands, wrists and feet. Early referral and treatment with disease-modifying medicines reduce the chance of permanent damage.

• Painful, warm and clearly swollen joints, often in both hands, wrists or forefeet.
• Morning stiffness that often lasts longer than half an hour to an hour.
• Take medicines consistently according to the plan and have the necessary blood monitoring.
• Methotrexate for RA is usually used once a week; daily use can be fatal.
• Make an appointment promptly for new persistent swelling of several joints and prolonged morning stiffness.
• For urgent GP care outside normal opening hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediately life-threatening situation.