Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a good source of rheumatoid arthritis relief. Corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and TNF-blockers, which are given by injection, may also provide relief. Alterations in lifestyle, such as dietary changes, assuring adequate rest levels, physical therapy and exercise also provide rheumatoid arthritis relief for some people suffering with this condition.
Rheumatoid arthritis, often referred to simply as RA, is a very painful disease affecting the joints. Characterized by chronic joint pain, inflammation and joint stiffness, individuals with RA often use a combination of rheumatoid arthritis remedies in an effort to maximize results. Some rely primarily on medical rheumatoid arthritis treatments, others prefer holistic remedies for rheumatoid arthritis relief while others utilize a combination of these. While each may be effective, experts agree that there is no single universal remedy that works for everyone.
For long-term rheumatoid arthritis relief, certain drugs are effective. Physician monitoring is necessary to assure that drugs are working and to monitor a patient for signs of side effects. Specifically, NSAIDs, such as naproxen and ibuprofen, help reduce inflammation and are known to provide significant rheumatoid arthritis relief, but do not hinder the progression of RA. DMARDs and TNF-blockers work to relieve stiffness, pain, help ease movement and work to prevent further damage to affected joints.
People afflicted with this condition often experience a decline in appetite during periods of intense inflammation, also known as a flareup. Skipping meals may actually worsen the affects of RA, however, by lowering the immune system and by causing weight loss. Lifestyle changes include a change in diet in an effort to soften the impact of RA. Some report that foods high in saturated fat aggravate RA and may even cause a flareup. Conversely, healthy fats, such as olive oil and fish oils, and other foods high in antioxidants, such as strawberries and blueberries, may help reduce flareups. Vegetarian diets have also been reported to provide rheumatoid arthritis relief in some patients.
Exercise can be painful to someone suffering from RA. With time, however, low-impact exercise, such as simple stretching exercises, yoga and walking, may actually reduce the pain of this condition. Chiropractic joint adjustments may also offer rheumatoid arthritis relief.
Rest has restorative value and is particularly important for individuals seeking rheumatoid arthritis relief. This is particularly the case when joints are inflamed or when pain becomes too intense. Allowing joints to rest often relieves inflammation and sufferers note that pain often subsides, as well.