What should be done about rheumatoid arthritis?
Disease description:
I heard that a friend of mine has developed rheumatoid arthritis. When I visited her at home, she looked very haggard. I would like to ask the doctor, what should be done about rheumatoid arthritis?
The treatment methods for rheumatoid arthritis (commonly referred to as RA) mainly include the following aspects:
1. **Medication therapy**: Use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirine to relieve pain and inflammation. Long-term administration of immunosuppressants such as methotrexate and cyclophosphamide may also be used to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammatory responses.
2. **Physical therapy**: Includes heat application, cold compresses, electrotherapy, massage, and other modalities aimed at improving blood circulation and alleviating pain and inflammation.
3. **Surgical treatment**: In severe cases where joint deformities significantly impact daily life, surgical interventions such as joint replacement or joint fusion may be considered.
4. **Rehabilitation exercises**: Appropriate rehabilitative activities such as stretching exercises, endurance training, and balance training can enhance joint flexibility and strength while reducing pain and inflammation.
5. **Lifestyle modifications**: Avoid exposure to cold, damp, and windy conditions, strengthen physical exercise, actively control infections, and avoid emotional stress.