Pseudogout
Alternate Names : Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease, CPPD
What are the treatments for the disease?
Pseudogout is treated with medications to stop inflammation and reduce pain.
Colchicine and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen
or naproxen, are commonly used. Corticosteroids may be given as pills or
injected into the affected joint. Sometimes fluid is removed from the joint to
help control joint pain and swelling.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Any time fluid is removed from or injected into a joint, there is a risk of
introducing bacteria that can cause infection. Pain and bleeding can also
result. Colchicine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, and
corticosteroids may cause
nausea,
vomiting,
diarrhea, abdominal
distress, and allergic
reactions.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
Treatment of pseudogout is lifelong, because the disease flares up periodically.
Most people can return to regular activity after the acute attacks subside.
How is the disease monitored?
A person with pseudogout should contact a healthcare provider if there is an
increase in
joint pain or swelling. This may indicate an acute attack that can
be treated with medications. Any other new or worsening symptoms also should be
reported to the healthcare provider.
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