Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Managing and treating rheumatoid arthritis is difficult. A person suffering from rheumatoid arthritis undergoes joint pain in their hands, feet, knees, and shoulders on an everyday basis.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help control rheumatoid arthritis to some extent. Though chronic rheumatoid arthritis is not curable, doctors can prescribe administrative medications that control or minimize further damage to the joints.
Treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis
Doctors may suggest a surgical intervention, therapy, and medication together, as the effective treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis. Once rheumatoid arthritis is detected, the doctor can prescribe Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate, leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine, and sulfasalazine, which may gradually slow the onset of rheumatoid arthritis and also prevent other affected tissues from further damage.
The main and important objective for any doctor while treating rheumatoid arthritis is to ease the stiffness around joints and prevent any damage to the nerves. The treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis are DMARDs, Corticosteroids, Biologics, Analgesics, and Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).
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Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)
These are entry-level or basic treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatologists start with methotrexate drug to treat joint inflammation. Methotrexate can be used in combination with other medications like hydroxychloroquine and sulfasalazine for better results.
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Biologics
Biologics work through injection, Intravenous (IV) shots and pills. They help control your immune system and reduce inflammation as well. Your rheumatologist will decide which route works best for your immune system to avoid any potential side effects. When you are on biologics, you do not stand a chance for any infection. Biologics are a little more expensive than DMARDs. Some healthcare providers also offer discounts on biologics.
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Corticosteroids
As the name suggests, this is a steroid drug, which is administered if the condition is severe. As this drug is powerful, it cannot be given in high dosages. Doctors give corticosteroids for a shorter duration, especially if a patient experiences sudden arthritis swelling or flare-up. This treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis comes with the risk of side effects such as weight gain, diabetes, osteoporosis, and infections.
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Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Commonly used as a quick pain reliever worldwide, NSAIDs can also be used as a treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis. However, NSAIDs also come with their share of side effects, such as stomach ulcers, blood pressure, and heart diseases.
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Analgesics
Analgesics are lighter versions of NSAIDs. At times, due to arthritis flare-up or intense swelling, the patient can experience stomach ulcers or have an upset stomach. In such cases, these analgesics act as short-term pain relievers to dull your pain.
- All the above treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis work as long as you take your medications regularly. They can help you control joint swelling and pain.
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Surgical intervention
This is the last resort if medications are causing side effects or majorly affecting your immunity. The most commonly performed surgery is hip or knee replacement.
Treating rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term goal and has to be started as soon as you experience a sign or symptom.
