What should I do if rheumatoid arthritis keeps recurring?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been experiencing joint pain frequently. After visiting the hospital, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Could you please advise on how to manage recurrent episodes of rheumatoid arthritis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
When rheumatoid arthritis recurs repeatedly, the following measures are recommended:
1. Comprehensive treatment: This includes medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation exercises. Medications may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Physical therapies, such as heat or cold therapy, can help alleviate pain.
2. Standardized treatment: Rheumatoid arthritis requires lifelong intermittent treatment. It is important to follow medical advice, attend regular follow-up appointments, and avoid reducing medication doses or discontinuing treatment without medical guidance.
3. Avoidance of triggers: Avoid exposure to cold and damp conditions, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and maintain a positive and optimistic mindset.
4. Surgical treatment: If medications and non-surgical treatments are ineffective, surgical options such as joint replacement or arthroscopic surgery may be considered.
