Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints. It causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness, and can eventually lead to joint damage and deformity.
The goal of RA treatment is to reduce inflammation and pain, prevent joint damage, and improve function and quality of life. There is no cure for RA, but there are a number of effective treatments available.
Medications
There are two main types of medications used to treat RA:
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These drugs slow the progression of RA and prevent joint damage. They are typically used long-term.
- Biologic agents: These drugs are used to treat moderate to severe RA. They target specific parts of the immune system that are involved in RA inflammation.
Other treatments
In addition to medications, other treatments for RA include:
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
- Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy can help you learn how to do everyday activities with less pain and difficulty.
- Surgery: Surgery may be an option to repair damaged joints or replace them with artificial joints.
Lifestyle changes
There are a number of lifestyle changes that can help people with RA manage their symptoms, including:
- Exercise: Regular exercise can help improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
- Diet: Eating a healthy diet can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
- Stress management: Stress can worsen RA symptoms. Finding ways to manage stress, such as relaxation techniques or exercise, can be helpful.
If you have RA, it is important to work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Your treatment plan may include a combination of medications, other treatments, and lifestyle changes.