Up to 3 % population suffer from Rheumatological diseases, diagnosis less

PAMPORE: A programme to create awareness among people about Rheumatological diseases was held at Sub District Hospital Pampore.
During the programme senior Rheumatologist Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Masoodi talked about various Rheumatological diseases, their diagnosis and treatment.
The programme was held in lieu of Indian Rheumatology Associations directive of celebrating April as month for creating awareness about Rheumatological diseases among general masses.
“ More than 200 diseases fall under Rheumatology. The early symptoms include joint pain, joint locking, dryness of tongue, dry eyes, mouth sores, hair fall, foot oedema, back ache and foamy urine .
In India 2 to 3 per cent people suffer from Rheumatological but diagnosis is very feeble, it is in this context that awareness is being created among people so that they report them to a trained Rheumatologist, “ Dr Mukhtar Masoodi told, Kashmir Reader adding that if the diseases are not diagnosed and treated early, they lead to joint damage, deformities, loss of mobility and some times major organ damage like kidney failure.
He added that early diagnosis and prompt treatment leads to better long term outcomes.
He urged people to consult a Rheumatologist if found above symptoms.
“ The Rheumatologist are trained to diagnose and treat these diseases,” he said.
it was said during the programme that Rheumatological diseases affect women more than men and can affect people from all age groups.
Rheumatoid arthritis and Lupus two common Rheumatological diseases.
The programme was attended by a good number of health workers including doctors, ASHA and Paramedics of Pampore block.

BILAL HABIB