How to Treat Elevated Rheumatoid Factor
Disease description:
Recently during a physical examination, I noticed that my rheumatoid factor (RF) levels were somewhat elevated. I would like to ask, how should elevated rheumatoid factor be treated?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
Rheumatoid factor is an autoantibody, and elevated levels are commonly seen in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, but it can also appear in other diseases or in healthy individuals. Below are some common treatment methods:
1. General treatment: Keep warm, avoid cold and damp conditions, and adjust clothing in a timely manner according to weather changes. Get appropriate rest and avoid excessive fatigue. Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and maintain a relaxed and cheerful mood.
2. Physical therapy: Local heat therapy and electrotherapy methods, such as hot water baths, hot springs, and paraffin therapy, can improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
3. Medication therapy: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Glucocorticoids can rapidly alleviate symptoms in the short term, but long-term use must be cautious due to potential side effects. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as methotrexate and sulfasalazine, can slow disease progression. Biologic agents target specific components of the immune system, such as TNF inhibitors and IL-6 inhibitors, which are effective for some patients.
4. Surgical treatment: If elevated rheumatoid factor leads to joint deformity or dysfunction, surgical intervention such as joint replacement may be required.
