Question Easy: A 50-year-old woman presents with pain and stiffness in her hands, particularly in the morning. She also notices some swelling in her fingers and wrists. What is the most likely diagnosis? 😊
A) Osteoarthritis
B) Rheumatoid arthritis
C) Gout
D) Psoriatic arthritis
E) Reactive arthritis
Question Medium: A 28-year-old man presents with lower back pain that has been gradually getting worse over the past six months. The pain tends to improve with exercise and worsen with rest. He also reports morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes. What is the most likely underlying cause of his condition? 🤔
A) Degenerative disc disease
B) Lumbar spine fracture
C) Ankylosing spondylitis
D) Sciatica
E) Spinal stenosis
Question Hard: A 45-year-old factory worker presents with a two-week history of right shoulder pain. The pain is localized to the lateral shoulder and worsens when he lifts his arm sideways, especially when reaching overhead. What is the best initial treatment option for his condition according to current NICE guidelines? 🤨
A) Corticosteroid injection
B) Physiotherapy referral
C) Oral NSAIDs
D) Rest and a supportive sling
E) Ultrasound-guided aspiration
Explanations & Answers:
Question Easy Answer: B) Rheumatoid arthritis
Question Easy Explanation: Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by symmetrical joint pain and stiffness, particularly affecting small joints like those in the hands, with worse symptoms in the morning. Nice to see how classic symptoms such as morning stiffness and swelling can lead us to suspect RA. 😊
Question Medium Answer: C) Ankylosing spondylitis
Question Medium Explanation: Ankylosing spondylitis typically presents in young adults, causing pain and stiffness that improve with activity. Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes is a key feature. NICE guidelines emphasize early recognition and management to prevent complications. 🤔
Question Hard Answer: C) Oral NSAIDs
Question Hard Explanation: For subacromial pain syndrome, such as the symptoms described, NICE recommends oral NSAIDs as a first-line treatment before considering more invasive options like corticosteroid injections or physiotherapy if not improved. Understanding these initial steps is crucial for effective management. 🤨
Medical fact of the day: In the UK, osteoarthritis affects more than 8 million people and is the most common form of arthritis, typically seen in older adults but not exclusive to them. The incorporation of lifestyle changes plays a significant role in management, emphasizing the importance of patient education.
Quote of the day: “In the face of adversity, remember that every stitch of care you offer weaves together a tapestry of hope and healing. Keep threading kindness into your work.”