Arthritis Specialist

Kimberly Bolling, MD

Internist located in Bowie, MD

When you have arthritis, even simple motions can cause excruciating pain. However, with the support of highly experienced internist Dr. Kimberly L. Bolling, you can get relief from pain, stiffness, and other miserable symptoms at her self-titled office in Bowie, Maryland. To get rid of your arthritis pain, book an appointment online or over the phone today.

Arthritis Q & A

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a condition that causes severe joint inflammation, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness and other symptoms. There are more than 100 kinds of arthritis, but the most common are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout.

The symptoms of arthritis include:

Pain

The most common arthritis symptom is pain, and more than 25% of people with arthritis say they suffer severe pain.

Joint stiffness

Joint stiffness can range from mild to severe enough to totally restrict movement.

Swelling

Swelling in and around joints is a common arthritis symptom, especially for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

Arthritis can be painful, difficult, and frustrating, but Dr. Bolling can help you get back to doing the activities you enjoy.

What are the risk factors for arthritis?

There are two general categories for arthritis risk factors: the controllable ones and the uncontrollable ones.

Uncontrollable risk factors

  • Risk increases with age
  • Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are more common in women
  • If members of your immediate family have arthritis, your risk rises

Controllable risk factors

  • Extra weight or obesity
  • Infections, especially joint and bone infections
  • Injuring your joints
  • Repetitive motions
  • Smoking

If you think you have arthritis, Dr. Bolling can help you deal with your controllable and uncontrollable risk factors and get you back on the road to healthy living.

How is arthritis treated?

Although there’s no permanent cure for arthritis currently, Dr. Bolling can give you highly effective arthritis treatment. Your treatment plan will depend on the type of arthritis you have and the symptoms you're dealing with.

Some of the most effective treatments include anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesic drugs, topical analgesic creams, steroid medications, and immunosuppressive drugs. Dr. Bolling may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and eating a healthier diet.

Arthritis doesn't have to keep you from doing the things you love. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kimberly L. Bolling online or over the phone today.