If you are searching “Tomball TX rheumatoid arthritis doctors in my area,” then consider Advanced Rheumatology of Houston. The sole rheumatologist at Advanced Rheumatology of Houston, Dr. Brionez, has more than ten years of experience in the field. Her experience makes her an excellent choice when it comes to a rheumatoid arthritis doctor.

Rheumatologists study rheumatologic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and osteoporosis. These conditions affect the connective tissues in the body. Connective tissues include joints, muscles, ligaments, organs, and bone. Of course, Dr. Brionez can do more than just diagnose and treat arthritis. She is capable of treating a number of different illnesses.

Dr. Brionez is a board-certified rheumatologist and is board-certified in internal medicine. Since 2009, she has practiced rheumatology and offers the highest form of care. She is happy to offer the Greater Houston area professional, knowledgable, and friendly care to patients with various rheumatologic conditions.

Patients with symptoms of arthritis should see a doctor for a professional diagnosis. Dr. Brionez works with various patients with all kinds of rheumatologic conditions. You can see the full list of conditions Dr. Brionez can treat and diagnose below.

• Gout
• Myositis
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica
• Psoriatic Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Scleroderma
• Sjögren’s Syndrome
• Spondyloarthritis
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (Lupus)
• Vasculitis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis or RA is the most common type of autoimmune arthritis. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks healthy tissue in the body. Normally, the immune system fights off foreign pathogens in the body. Infections and viruses are the most common examples. The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, however, 1.3 million Americans are affected by the condition.

RA can occur in anyone, but women between the ages of 30 and 50 are the most common. Symptoms of RA include swelling, pain, and stiffness of joints. The pain and stiffness will be worse in the mornings. Appetite loss, lack of energy, dry eyes or mouth, and minor fevers are also prevalent. Each case of rheumatoid arthritis is different from the last and should be treated on a case by case basis.

The damage RA can deal with joints is irreversible, so it is best to diagnose the illness early. The immune system targets the joints in the case of RA, which causes the inflammation patient’s experience. The smaller joints in the hands and feet are the most affected. Nonetheless, any joint in the body may be affected.

Diagnosing and Treating RA

Blood tests are a common procedure for diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis. However, X-rays and ultrasounds are also used in order to examine the extent of damage to the joint. The blood tests search for antibodies associated with the disease. In some cases, the antibodies are found in people without the disease, which is known as a false positive. If you are diagnosed with RA, then there are many treatment options available.

RA has no cure, but there are treatment options for patients. Many treatments available offer patients plenty of relief to live normal lives. Medication is one way to reduce the disease’s presence. Complete control of the disease is referred to as remission.

Treatment targets joint swelling, pain, and stiffness. RA is not treated the same way for each patient because every case is different. Even though medication is used in the treatment process, it is not the only thing that needs to be done. Patients should exercise on a regular basis. It helps reduce pain and stiffness in the joints.

RA patients should walk often and perform exercises that improve muscle strength. Moreover, they should rest when they are tired or when the joints are inflamed. Patients should also consider a therapist as they can help control the disease as well.

The contRAst Program

Even though there are many treatment options for patients, not everyone responds to them. Furthermore, current treatments do not satisfy the needs of every patient. So, there are research studies testing new medications that are hoping to slow the progression of the disease. One such study is known as the contRAst Program. The study is testing a new drug that will slow the progression of the disease.

So, if this drug is effective, then it will help preserve the joints in patients. Subsequently, their symptoms are reduced, and the comfort of their lives is improved. The program is searching for participants with RA. Advanced Rheumatology of Houston is happy to participate in this program with many other clinics.

The study has three different groups of people. The first group will consist of 1500 to 1700 people. The second will have 1500 to 1800 people, and the last will only have about 600 people. Those who participate will have a chance to take part in a longer study afterward. Research studies often provide free medication, free clinic visits, and travel stipends.

The most basic requirement for the study is participants must be 18 years or older. If you want to know if you qualify for the study, then visit our rheumatoid arthritis research page to find out.

Tomball TX Rheumatoid Arthritis Doctors in My Area

Rheumatologists diagnose and treat a variety of diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis can be very debilitating, so it is important patients see a doctor when they are experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling. In fact, research shows patients who were diagnosed and treated early live happier and healthier lives. So, do not wait until the pain becomes too much to bear.

If you need a rheumatologist, then contact Advanced Rheumatology of Houston today. Dr. Brionez offers professional, knowledgable, and experienced services for all patients. She genuinely cares about her patients and wants to provide them with the best comfort possible. Contact the clinic today by calling (281) 766-7886. There is no reason why you should live in pain or discomfort.

Patients may also contact us online if they would prefer. Regardless, you will get the same great treatment Advanced Rheumatology of Houston provides. RA is not an easy disease to live with. Let our team help you become comfortable and live healthier. Patients should stop searching “Tomball TX rheumatoid arthritis doctors in my area” and start calling today!

Fun Facts about Tomball

• The area began to prosper around 1906 when it became a railroad town.
• The city has a 97% Excellent rating of the Utilities Gas System.
• Tomball is one of the top three cities in Texas for the gas system.
• Find more fun facts about Tomball here.