What should I do if I have severe rheumatoid arthritis?
Disease description:
I have been suffering from rheumatoid arthritis for quite some time, and my condition has become quite severe recently. My finger joints are painful and swollen, and they feel stiff for a long time after waking up in the morning. My mobility is also significantly limited; even walking a short distance feels very strenuous. I am truly distressed—what should I do if my rheumatoid arthritis becomes this severe?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
In the face of severe rheumatoid disease, patients should adopt a comprehensive treatment strategy. Specifically:
1. Seek timely medical attention: Severe rheumatoid disease may lead to serious consequences such as joint bone destruction and deformity; therefore, patients should promptly go to the hospital for examination and treatment.
2. Medication therapy: Select non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antirheumatic medications according to the condition to undergo standardized treatment. These medications can effectively alleviate joint swelling, pain, inflammation, and control disease progression.
3. Regular follow-up examinations: Monitor disease progression and medication side effects.
4. Physical therapy: Such as heat therapy, electrotherapy, ultrasound, to improve joint function.
5. Rehabilitation exercises: Perform joint mobility training to strengthen muscles and maintain joint flexibility.
6. Lifestyle modifications: Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and avoiding excessive fatigue. Additionally, appropriate exercise and joint protection are also important to enhance joint flexibility and muscle strength.
7. Balanced diet: Consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as deep-sea fish, which may help reduce inflammation.
