Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. It can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function in the affected joints. The exact cause of RA is unknown but it is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. The immune system of a person with RA mistakes the synovium - the membrane that lines the joints - as a threat and attacks it. This chronic inflammation can cause damage to the cartilage and erosion of the bones over time.
Managing Pain and Inflammation
The main goals of Rheumatoid Arthritis treatment are to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, prevent further joint damage and improve physical function. The treatment approach will depend on factors like the severity of symptoms, which joints are affected and response to previous treatments. Lifestyle modifications like weight management, low-impact exercises and joint protection techniques can help manage symptoms. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (paracetamol), topical pain relievers are also prescribed for mild pain. For moderate to severe pain or inflammation, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be prescribed. Traditional DMARDs like methotrexate, leflunomide and hydroxychloroquine work to slow or stop disease progression. Biologic DMARDs target specific proteins in the immune system to control inflammation. Corticosteroid injections directly into affected joints provide quick relief from severe flares.
Preventing Joint Damage and Disability
For preventing long-term joint damage and disability, early and aggressive treatment soon after diagnosis is important. DMARDs should be started as soon as RA is diagnosed, even before any damage occurs. Tight control of disease activity through regular monitoring and adjustment of treatment helps prevent joint deformities. If DMARDs alone are not controlling the disease, biologic DMARDs or targeted synthetic DMARDs may be added. These potent medications inhibit certain molecules of the immune system that cause inflammation. Some biologics approved for RA are infliximab, etanercept, adalimumab, rituximab and tocilizumab. For patients who do not respond well to multiple DMARDs and biologics, medication like tofacitinib that targets key proteins in the immune response may be tried. Early joint replacement surgery is recommended if a joint has been severely damaged to restore function and relieve pain.
Complementary Therapies
Along with medications, complementary therapies provide additional relief for RA symptoms and help cope with the challenges of living with a chronic illness. Physical therapy helps maintain joint mobility and muscle strength. Occupational therapy teaches techniques to perform daily tasks with less strain on joints. Aquatic exercises in warm water pools are beneficial for joints. Heat or ice therapy, massage, yoga and pilates improve flexibility and reduce aches. Joint protection measures help preserve joint integrity. Psychological counselling helps deal with emotional issues like coping with disability and adjusting to lifestyle changes. Nutritional support with a balanced diet supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants has shown benefits. Herbal supplements like turmeric, boswellia and devil's claw have anti-inflammatory properties but their efficacy is still being studied.
Living Well with Rheumatoid Arthritis
While there is no cure for RA currently, advances in treatment options help control symptoms, increase function and slow progression of joint damage. With careful medical management and self-care strategies, people with RA can lead full and active lives. The right combination of medication therapy, physical activity, joint care methods and stress management techniques helps minimize disability. Finding a team of healthcare providers, joining a support group and educating oneself about the disease are important for long-term success in managing RA. Maintaining a positive outlook and prioritizing overall health and wellbeing aids emotional wellness.With multidisciplinary care and adherence to treatment plan, people with RA can effectively cope with disease challenges and pursue personal and professional goals.
In summary, rheumatoid arthritis treatment requires lifelong management through disease-modifying treatment, joint protection practices, physical and mental wellness plans. The arsenal of medications now available helps slow disease progression and prevent disability for many. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, practicing self-care skills, along with regular access to health resources enable people with RA to take control of their condition. With a collaborative approach between healthcare providers and patients, optimal control of inflammatory symptoms and quality of life can be achieved for individuals coping with this chronic condition.
