Evaluation of quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Journal Title: Reumatologia - Year 2006, Vol 44, Issue 6
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory, systemic connective tissue disease leading to disability, physical handicap or even premature death. The chronic and injurious character of RA and limited therapeutic effectiveness with possibilities of side effects affect the quality of life of RA patients. Along with development of the disease, deformation of joints and progression of disability means that the patient becomes dependent, has problems with accepting the disease, and has many problems not only of physical, but of also psychological and of social nature. The patient needs support and care from family and medical staff. The aim of the study was to estimate in patients with RA: the quality of life in physical, psychological, social and environmental domains, effect of social-demographic factors on quality of life also taking into account 4 domains and effect of the duration of disease on quality of life. It was found that patients suffering from RA are unsatisfied with their health. The decrease of physical function was especially underlined by RA patients. The quality of life of patients with RA decreased during the duration of disease especially when systemic and joints changes were progressing and disability and physical handicap were increasing. In this period the patients need support, especially lonely persons. It is concluded that a multidirectional therapeutic program should not only include efforts to improve somatic status but also to improve physical and social status of RA patients.
Authors and Affiliations
Matylda Sierakowska, Alicja Matys, Anna Kosior, Barbara Ołtarzewska, Jacek Kita, Stanisław Sierakowski, Elżbieta Krajewska-Kułak
Keywords
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