Although there?s still no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are ways in which you can help to relieve the problem.
Currently, if you suffer from this condition, you?ll be given treatments which concentrate on slowing down the damage that that it causes the joints.
Luckily, treatments are improving and experts are continuing to try and find new ways of tackling this common problem. However, the most popular methods at the moment are:
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Painkillers, also known as analgesics
These can be prescribed as an additional painkiller and paracetamol is the most often used, although stronger drugs such as co-codamol and tramadol are sometimes recommended by doctors.
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Biological therapies
These recent therapies were developed after scientists developed a better understanding of how inflammation and joint damage occurs in the body.
They are classed as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS) which slow down the progress of the condition. The sooner you start taking them, the sooner they will begin to protect your joints.
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Tumour necrosis factor blockers (Anti TNFs)
These are drugs which help to fight inflammation and generally get to work quite quickly on reducing symptoms such as pain and swelling, although the speed at which you respond to them can vary from person to person.
However, the downside is these drugs often come with side effects, which can be anything from nausea and wheezing to skin rashes and chest infections. Your doctor will explain this to you when they are prescribed.
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B-cell treatment
This recently developed treatment can be used in the form of the drug Rituximab, which destroys the white blood cells that produce antibodies known as B-cells.
This is an effective way of ridding the body of auto-antibodies, harmful cells produced by the immune system which attack the tissues and organs.
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Corticosteroids
Also known as steroids, corticosteroids can help to reduce swelling, stiffness and pain. Normally, your doctor will only prescribe them for a short period of time, due to their strong side effects. These include thinning of the skin, muscle weakness and weight increase.