Arthritis, inflammation in the joints that leads to pain and swelling, affects over 350 million people worldwide. About 4% of those cases (14 million total) are something more severe: rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This is an autoimmune condition affecting the joints and the organs. Without proper care, RA can be a debilitating disease that makes daily activities challenging. Curious what the most common medication and treatment options are for rheumatoid arthritis? Look no further! PatientsLikeMe has you covered.
Medications
For many, medications are the front line of defense against RA. Depending on the disease's progression and severity, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following.
- NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help to reduce pain and inflammation. These drugs include options like ibuprofen or naproxen. Depending on the severity of the pain, doctors may prescribe stronger or weaker versions of NSAIDs. There are also over the counter options, which typically have fewer side effects.
- DMARDs: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs are common in treating RA. These medications work by suppressing the immune systems overactivity. This overactivity is what damages joints and organs. As a result they can lower pain, reduce joint damage and bone erosion, and slow the spread of RA. There are two main types that a doctor may prescribe: traditional DMARDs and biologics.
- Targeted Biologic Therapies: Biologics are engineered proteins that target specific parts of the immune system responsible for inflammation. They are used when conventional DMARDs don’t provide relief. Biologics like adalimumab and rituximab are administered via injection or infusion.
- Janus Kinase (JAK) Inhibitors: These are the newest medications available for treating RA. JAK inhibitors work by blocking enzymes involved in RA inflammation. They are in the family of DMARDs medications, but offer an alternative for those who do not respond to other treatments.
- Symptomatic Relief: There are also medications used to treat specific symptoms of RA. Analgesics can be used on top of other treatments to help control pain. Corticosteroids are effective anti-inflammatories used short-term to manage acute symptoms until slower-acting DMARDs take effect.
Physical Therapy
Physical activity helps to maintain joint function and overall health. Working with a physical therapist to create tailored exercise plans will improve mobility, strengthen supportive muscles, and give you techniques to manage pain and avoid joint damage. Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and gentle aerobics enhance cardiovascular health and joint flexibility without over-stressing inflamed joints.
Pain Management
Beyond medication and physical therapy, you need some self-care strategies to deal with pain and inflammation. Hot or cold treatments, topical creams, and acupuncture can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness. Pacing activities and using aids can reduce fatigue and protect joints from excessive strain.
For severe joint damage, surgical intervention might be necessary. Procedures like hip and knee replacements can restore mobility and reduce pain in affected joints.
Managing RA effectively requires an all-around approach combining medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Work closely with your doctor to find a treatment plan that fits you. You can have better control over your condition and maintain an active, fulfilling life!