Inflammatory rheumatism is a condition characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints. The spelling of this term can be challenging due to the phonetic complexity of its constituent parts. "Inflammatory" is spelled [ɪnˈflæməˌtɔri], with the stress on the second syllable and the final "y" omitted. "Rheumatism" is spelled [ˈruːməˌtɪzəm], with the stress on the second syllable and a silent "h". The correct spelling of "inflammatory rheumatism" is vital to effective communication about this health condition.
Inflammatory rheumatism, also known as rheumatoid arthritis, is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. It is characterized by inflammation and swelling of the synovial lining, which leads to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
The term "inflammatory" refers to the inflammation that occurs in the affected joints. Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection, but in rheumatoid arthritis, it becomes chronic and damages healthy tissues. This inflammation is mainly caused by a malfunctioning immune system, whereby the immune cells mistakenly attack the healthy tissues of the joints.
Rheumatism, on the other hand, is a broad term that encompasses various conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, muscles, and connective tissues. Inflammatory rheumatism specifically refers to the type of rheumatism that is characterized by persistent inflammation in the joints.
Inflammatory rheumatism typically affects multiple joints symmetrically, meaning that if one joint on a particular side of the body is affected, the corresponding joint on the other side will also be affected. This condition can also cause systemic symptoms, such as fatigue, fever, and weight loss.
Treatment for inflammatory rheumatism aims to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve joint function. This often includes a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
Acute articular r.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "inflammatory" comes from the Latin word "inflammare", which means "to set on fire" or "to inflame". It is derived from the combination of the prefix "in-" meaning "in" or "into", and the verb "flammare", meaning "to blaze" or "to burn".
The term "rheumatism" originates from the Greek word "rheuma", which means "a flowing" or "a stream". It was used to describe any disorder characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints, muscles, or fibrous tissue. Although the term "rheumatism" has been used to describe a range of conditions, it is now typically associated with arthritis and related disorders.
Therefore, the term "inflammatory rheumatism" combines the concept of inflammation ("inflammatory") with the broader term for joint and muscle disorders ("rheumatism").