What should be done about recurrent rheumatoid arthritis?
Dec 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
Introduction
For recurrent episodes of rheumatoid arthritis, standardized measures including drug therapy, lifestyle adjustments, control of triggering factors, enhanced joint protection, and regular follow-up monitoring are required. If symptoms frequently worsen or joint deformities and functional limitations occur, prompt consultation with a rheumatology and immunology specialist is necessary. Follow medical advice in using disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and other medications as prescribed.
Rheumatoid arthritis tends to recur repeatedly and requires standardized medication, lifestyle adjustments, control of triggering factors, enhanced joint protection, and regular follow-up monitoring. If symptoms frequently worsen or joint deformities and functional limitations occur, prompt consultation with a rheumatology and immunology specialist is necessary.
1. Standardized Medication: Take disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and other medications as prescribed. Do not discontinue or reduce medication without medical advice. Adequate dosage and full-course treatment can suppress inflammatory responses, reduce disease recurrence, and prevent disease progression caused by improper medication use.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid overexertion and staying up late; ensure sufficient sleep and maintain a balanced diet to support nutritional needs. Engage in moderate, low-impact joint exercises to strengthen physical health while reducing joint strain, thereby lowering the risk of recurrence.
3. Control Triggering Factors: Avoid cold and damp environments, minimize mental stress and excessive pressure, and prevent infections. These factors may stimulate immune system activation and trigger inflammatory episodes, so targeted avoidance is essential.
4. Enhanced Joint Protection: Avoid excessive joint loading and strenuous exercise. Use supportive devices such as braces when necessary to protect affected joints, reduce joint wear and injury, slow disease progression, and decrease recurrence triggers.
5. Regular Follow-up Monitoring: Undergo regular checkups for inflammatory markers and joint function as directed by your physician. Timely adjust treatment plans according to disease changes, detect fluctuations early, and intervene promptly to prevent recurrent exacerbations.
Daily care should include keeping joints warm and avoiding exposure to cold or damp conditions. Choose gentle forms of exercise such as walking or tai chi, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and maintain a positive mood. Scientific self-care practices can assist in managing the condition and reduce the frequency of relapses.
