Relapsing Polychondritis Treatment in Riverside, CA

Overview of Relapsing Polychondritis

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) causes swelling and irritation of cartilage and other tissues in the body. It happens again and again. Cartilage is a tough but bendable tissue. It covers the ends of bones where they meet at a joint. It also gives shape and support to other parts of the body, such as the ears, nose and windpipe.

Understanding Relapsing Polychondritis

RP can also affect the windpipe (trachea), the cartilage of the ribs, and the eyes, heart, blood vessels, skin, kidneys and nerves. The signs are different for each person. They depend on which parts of the body are affected. As the name says, the swelling tends to come in flares. It calms down and then comes back.

Who Gets Relapsing Polychondritis?

RP is rare. It can start at any age but most often starts in middle age. No one knows the exact cause. Experts think genes and other things play a part. RP often happens along with other autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms of Relapsing Polychondritis

• A painful, red, swollen outer ear. The ear lobe is usually not affected.
• Pain and redness over the bridge of the nose. Over time, the nose can lose its shape.
• Joint pain and swelling.
• Red, painful eyes from swelling in the eye.
• A hoarse voice, cough, wheezing or trouble breathing. This happens when the voice box or windpipe is affected.
• Chest pain from swollen rib cartilage.
• Changes in hearing or feeling dizzy, in some people.

Diagnosis of Relapsing Polychondritis

Doctors diagnose RP from your symptoms and an exam. They may need to rule out other, more common problems first. Your rheumatologist may order:

• Blood tests for inflammation.
• Breathing tests and scans of the airways.
• An eye exam.
• In some cases, a biopsy. A tiny piece of the affected cartilage is checked under a microscope.

Treatment of Relapsing Polychondritis

Treatment depends on which tissues are affected and how active the disease is. It aims to control swelling during flares. It also aims to prevent damage to the ears, nose, airways, eyes and heart. Medicines that calm the immune system are the main treatment. People whose airways or heart are affected are watched closely by a team of specialists.

Living With Relapsing Polychondritis

• Go to your follow-up visits, even when you feel well.
• Tell your doctor right away about changes in your breathing, a hoarse voice or eye pain.
• If you take medicines that lower your immunity, ask your care team which vaccines are right for you.