Rheumatic diseases, including arthritis and autoimmune disorders, affect millions of people worldwide. Women, in particular, are disproportionately affected by many of these conditions, often facing unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
What Are Rheumatic Diseases?
Rheumatic diseases refer to a group of conditions that affect the joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They are often chronic, meaning they persist over a long period and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Some of the most common rheumatic diseases include:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – An autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) – Commonly referred to as lupus, this autoimmune disease can affect various organs, including the skin, kidneys, and heart.
- Sjögren’s Syndrome – Another autoimmune disease that primarily affects the glands that produce moisture, leading to dry eyes and mouth.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) – A type of arthritis that mainly affects the spine, causing inflammation and stiffness.
Many rheumatic diseases are also autoimmune, meaning the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and pain.
Why Are Women More Affected?
One of the most intriguing aspects of rheumatic diseases is that they disproportionately affect women. For example, rheumatoid arthritis is two to three times more common in women, and lupus is up to nine times more common in women than in men. So, why the gender difference?
- Hormonal factors – Hormones, particularly estrogen, are thought to play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases. While the exact relationship isn’t fully understood, fluctuations in hormone levels—such as during pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause—can impact the immune system’s functioning.
- Genetic predisposition – Some rheumatic diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, have a genetic component, and women may be more prone to developing these conditions due to their genetic makeup.
- Immune system differences – Women tend to have stronger immune responses than men, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. While a robust immune system helps fight off infections, it also increases the likelihood of developing autoimmune diseases.
Common Symptoms of Rheumatic Diseases in Women
Rheumatic diseases present differently from person to person, but women may experience unique symptoms or challenges. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
- Joint Pain and Swelling – This is a hallmark of many rheumatic diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Women may notice pain in the hands, wrists, knees, and feet.
- Fatigue – Extreme fatigue is common in many autoimmune diseases. Women with lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, for instance, often report feeling constantly tired, even after a full night’s sleep.
- Dry Eyes and Mouth – Sjögren’s syndrome primarily affects the moisture-producing glands, leading to dry eyes and mouth. These symptoms can also be present in women with lupus.
- Muscle Weakness – Some rheumatic diseases, like polymyositis, cause inflammation in the muscles, leading to weakness, especially in the hips and shoulders.
- Rashes – Skin symptoms, such as the butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose in lupus, are more common in women.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing rheumatic diseases can be tricky, as symptoms often overlap with other conditions. At Aaria Rheumatology, we use a patient-centred approach to provide comprehensive care. Here’s what you can expect when seeking treatment:
It begins with a detailed history of your symptoms, family medical history, and a physical exam. Blood tests, imaging studies (like X-rays or MRIs), and other diagnostic tools may be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Every woman’s journey with rheumatic disease is different, which is why we tailor treatment to each individual. Treatment often involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes physical therapy.
- Medications – Anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants may be prescribed to control inflammation and manage symptoms.
- Lifestyle Adjustments – Diet, exercise, and stress management play a crucial role in managing rheumatic diseases. we can help you adopt healthy habits to improve your overall well-being.
Dr. Santosa’s special interest in clinical immunology means she has a deeper understanding of how the immune system influences rheumatic diseases. This expertise is especially valuable for women dealing with autoimmune conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome. If allergies are contributing to your symptoms, Dr Santosa can also address those with specialised care.
Managing Rheumatic Diseases – What Women Can Do
Living with a rheumatic disease doesn’t have to mean giving up on the things you love. While these conditions can be challenging, there are ways to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some tips:
- Stay Active – Gentle exercises like swimming, walking, or yoga can help keep joints flexible and reduce stiffness. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
- Eat a Balanced Diet – A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation in the body. Avoid processed foods and excess sugar, as they can exacerbate symptoms.
- Manage Stress – Stress can trigger flare-ups in many rheumatic diseases. Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or spending time in nature.
- Follow Your Treatment Plan – Regular check-ups with your rheumatologist, taking medications as prescribed, and monitoring your symptoms can help you stay on top of your condition.
Conclusion
Rheumatic diseases in women are more common than many people realise, but with the right care and management, it’s possible to live a full and active life. At Aaria Rheumatology, Dr. Anindita Santosa offers specialised, compassionate care to help women navigate the challenges of these conditions. If you’re experiencing any symptoms or have concerns about your health, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
