Arthritis
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Kadie E. Leach, MD
Internal Medicine located in Lanham, MD
If you’re experiencing pain or disability caused by arthritis, you don’t have to suffer. Dr. Kadie Leach is an experienced internal medicine physician based in Lanham, Maryland. She screens for, diagnoses, and treats various forms of arthritis that hinder quality of life. Call Dr. Leach to learn more, or schedule an appointment online today.
Arthritis Q & A
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a chronic disease that causes joint stiffness, pain, and swelling. Severe forms of arthritis can be debilitating and progressively worsen over time if not treated properly. There are over 100 different types of arthritis. A few common forms include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Juvenile arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Gout
- Infectious arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack its own tissues. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that slowly progresses over time due to joint wear and tears associated with aging and is the most common form of arthritis.
Gout is a type of arthritis characterized by a buildup of uric acid in the joints, and psoriatic arthritis may occur in people with a skin condition called psoriasis.
Risk factors for arthritis include the family history of arthritis, older age, being female, having previous joint injuries, and being overweight or obese.
What are the symptoms of arthritis?
The main symptoms of the various forms of arthritis include:
- Joint pain
- Swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Decreased range of motion
- Twisted or deformed joints
If left untreated, more advanced stages of arthritis can hinder your ability to perform routine day-to-day tasks — such as gripping things, walking comfortably, and even sitting up straight.
How is arthritis diagnosed?
Dr. Leach goes over your medical history, conducts a physical examination, and performs tests to determine if you have arthritis. She may order blood tests or have you complete imaging scans to make a definitive arthritis diagnosis and determine which type of arthritis you have.
How is arthritis treated?
The type and severity of arthritis determines which treatment is appropriate for you. Dr. Leach may recommend lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms of arthritis, medical marijuana to manage pain, or arthritis medications to slow progression of the disease.
Surgery may be necessary if you have a severe form of arthritis that is debilitating and prevents you from completing necessary day-to-day tasks. Dr. Leach recommends the least invasive treatment option first, while minimizing (or eliminating) the progression of the disease.
When you’re ready to reduce symptoms of arthritis and delay disease progression, call Dr. Leach’s office today or book an appointment online.
