How is the early stage of rheumatoid arthritis treated?
Disease description:
My younger aunt often works in a very humid environment to earn more money, and over time, she has developed rheumatism. May I ask, how is the early stage of rheumatoid arthritis treated?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
The initial treatment of rheumatoid arthritis should be comprehensive, taking multiple factors into consideration, as follows:
1. General treatment: appropriately reduce labor intensity, combine with functional exercises to restore local function. Meanwhile, maintain a good living environment and avoid damp, dark surroundings.
2. Medication: painkillers such as celecoxib capsules and ibuprofen sustained-release tablets can relieve pain and accelerate inflammation reduction. Chronic anti-rheumatic drugs, such as methotrexate and leflunomide, can control disease progression, but require long-term use and regular monitoring of liver and kidney function.
3. Physical therapy: such as heat therapy and massage, can assist in relieving pain and joint stiffness.
4. Surgical treatment: if medication proves ineffective and joint deformities are present, surgical intervention may be considered.
