Detecting rheumatoid arthritis in its early stages aids in preventing joint deterioration, misuse of medications and steroids, as well as organ damage, thereby enhancing daily functioning and quality of life.

As we are all aware, rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition, categorized by its long-lasting nature requiring prolonged medication usage. Similar chronic ailments include diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hypothyroidism, and high cholesterol. While these conditions are manageable, they are not curable. However, does this imply we should refrain from treating them? Certainly not. Medications are essential for managing diabetes and hypertension, as untreated cases can lead to complications such as kidney and eye damage. Untreated thyroid issues can also significantly impact our bodily functions. The same principle applies to rheumatoid arthritis. In this article, Dr. Naval Mendiratta, Senior Consultant in the Department of Rheumatology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, outlines five benefits of diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis early.
Preserving Joint Integrity
The primary complication of rheumatoid arthritis is irreversible joint damage, often necessitating surgical intervention. Dr. Mendiratta emphasized, “Rheumatoid arthritis not only affects the elderly but can also debilitate individuals as young as 20-25 years old, impacting multiple joints. In some cases, certain joints may not be amenable to surgical correction.” However, he underscored, “Prevention is possible. Research has consistently shown that if we intervene early in the disease process, joint damage can be averted, allowing patients to remain pain-free for an extended period.”
Highlighting the significance of early intervention, Dr. Mendiratta explained, “Early rheumatoid arthritis refers to a disease duration of less than six months.” He elaborated, “In clinical practice, we’ve observed that patients who initiate therapy promptly often evade joint damage and sustain their normal lifestyles. Therefore, the duration of the disease emerges as a pivotal factor in thwarting the progression of arthritis.”
Reduced Reliance on Pain Medications
According to Dr. Mendiratta, “Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) or painkillers are among the most commonly misused medications worldwide. Particularly in India, they are available over-the-counter, leading to their indiscriminate use without prescriptions or awareness of when to discontinue.”
But do NSAIDs effectively manage rheumatoid arthritis? Our expert asserts, “No, they merely alleviate pain temporarily without addressing the underlying inflammation. Moreover, they pose potential risks to the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract.” He emphasizes, “Hence, the majority of our patients opt for Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), which typically do not include painkillers. Initiating DMARD therapy early can effectively control the disease progression, minimizing the need for painkillers.”
Reduced Dependency on Steroids
Dr. Mendiratta explained, “Steroids are frequently employed in the initial phase as a temporary measure to swiftly control disease activity, but we refrain from their prolonged usage due to well-documented adverse effects.” He cautioned, “Steroids can lead to complications such as diabetes, cataracts, weight gain, increased facial hair, and bone density loss.” Additionally, he noted, “Surprisingly, similar to painkillers, steroids are also available over-the-counter, contributing to patient dependence. However, individuals who adopt early and appropriate DMARD therapy can minimize steroid usage, and in some cases, avoid it altogether. Thus, the notion of lifelong steroid requirement in arthritis is unfounded.”
Preventing Organ Damage
Rheumatoid arthritis, primarily affecting the joints, is fundamentally a blood-related condition. Dr. Mendiratta clarified, “Inadequate management of rheumatoid arthritis can lead to detrimental effects on other organs, with the lungs and eyes being particularly susceptible. Interstitial Lung Disease, characterized by lung inflammation, is commonly observed in individuals with prolonged uncontrolled arthritis. Additionally, it can induce dryness and inflammation in the eyes.”
He further elaborated, “Untreated rheumatoid arthritis frequently leads to fluid accumulation in the heart, heightening the risk of heart attacks. Therefore, early control of the disease is pivotal in swiftly mitigating inflammation and averting potential organ-related complications.”
Improving Quality of Life
There is a common misconception that arthritis inevitably diminishes one’s quality of life. “This myth instills fear in people, but it’s not accurate,” clarified Dr. Mendiratta. “Having rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t inherently result in joint damage. Patients who receive early treatment can lead normal lives, indistinguishable from others. Achieving a high quality of life is a fundamental entitlement for every individual, and as rheumatologists, our objective is to ensure patients maintain this standard.”
Bottomline
Dr. Mendiratta emphasized, “Our goal is to raise awareness about initiating treatment promptly for rheumatoid arthritis. Frequently, we encounter patients nearly two years into the disease, by which time joint damage has already begun. Hence, we aim to seize this critical window to ensure patients enjoy a high quality of life, devoid of deformities, and minimize reliance on painkillers or steroids.”