PATIENT INFORMATION
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions our patients ask most often about arthritis, autoimmune diseases and their treatment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jyoti Ranjan Parida, MD, DM (Rheumatology)Updated July 2026
THE BASICSCommon questions
Common questions
about arthritis & rheumatic diseases
Welcome to the FAQ page of OARC – Odisha Arthritis & Rheumatology Center, Odisha’s first dedicated arthritis and rheumatology centre, with clinics in Bhubaneswar. Below you will find answers to the questions our patients ask most often about arthritis, autoimmune diseases and their treatment. This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for a consultation — if you have symptoms, please see a rheumatologist.
A rheumatologist is a specialist doctor who diagnoses and treats arthritis, autoimmune diseases and other conditions affecting the joints, muscles and bones. These include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus (SLE), ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, scleroderma, vasculitis and osteoporosis. At OARC, Dr. Jyoti Ranjan Parida and his team treat the full range of rheumatic diseases.
You should see a rheumatologist if you have joint pain, swelling or stiffness that lasts more than a few weeks. Other warning signs include morning stiffness lasting over 30 minutes, pain in multiple joints, persistent back pain in young adults, and unexplained fatigue or fever along with joint symptoms. Early diagnosis matters — starting treatment early can help prevent permanent joint damage in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, while osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition caused by gradual wear and tear of joint cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the small joints of the hands and feet on both sides, with prolonged morning stiffness. Osteoarthritis usually affects the knees, hips and spine, and the pain typically worsens with activity. The two are treated very differently, so an accurate diagnosis by a rheumatologist is important.
Most forms of arthritis cannot be permanently cured, but they can be managed very effectively with modern treatment. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can often be brought into remission — a state with little or no disease activity — using medicines called DMARDs. Osteoarthritis symptoms can be reduced with exercise, weight management and medication, and gout can usually be fully controlled with the right treatment. The earlier treatment begins, the better the long-term outcome.
SPECIFIC CONDITIONSQuestions about
Questions about
gout, lupus & childhood arthritis
Gout is caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood, which forms crystals in the joints and triggers sudden, severe pain — often in the big toe. Foods and drinks that can raise uric acid include red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, alcohol and sugary beverages. Diet changes alone are often not enough, and many patients need uric-acid-lowering medicines. At OARC, our rheumatology team provides dedicated gout care.
Lupus (SLE) most commonly affects women of childbearing age, although men and older people can also develop it. It is a serious autoimmune disease that can involve the skin, joints, kidneys and other organs, but with early diagnosis and regular treatment most patients lead full, active lives. Common symptoms include joint pain, skin rashes, hair loss, mouth ulcers and persistent fatigue. If you notice these symptoms, consult a rheumatologist promptly.
Yes, children and young people can develop arthritis. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis in children, causing joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Young adults can also develop conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, lupus and reactive arthritis. Childhood arthritis is very treatable, and early specialist care helps protect growing joints. If your child has persistent joint pain or swelling, consult a rheumatologist without delay.
Joint pain, swelling or stiffness lasting more than a few weeks? See a rheumatologist — starting treatment early can help prevent permanent joint damage.
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TESTS, TREATMENT & APPOINTMENTSDiagnosis, medicines
Diagnosis, medicines
& visiting OARC
Arthritis is diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination, blood tests and imaging. Common blood tests include rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, ANA, uric acid and inflammation markers such as ESR and CRP. X-rays, ultrasound and MRI scans help assess joint inflammation and damage. No single test confirms arthritis on its own — a rheumatologist interprets the results together with your symptoms and examination findings to reach an accurate diagnosis.
DMARDs and biologic medicines are generally safe for long-term use when taken under the supervision of a rheumatologist. Regular monitoring, usually with periodic blood tests, helps detect any side effects early, and patients are screened for infections such as tuberculosis before starting biologics. For most people with active rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, the benefits of controlling the disease far outweigh the risks of untreated inflammation. Never stop these medicines without consulting your doctor.
You can book an appointment at OARC by calling +91 93386 53086 or through our online booking page. We have centres in Bhubaneswar. For directions, timings and other queries, please visit our contact page. If you have been experiencing joint pain, swelling or stiffness, we encourage you to bring your previous reports and prescriptions to your first consultation.