How to cure rheumatoid arthritis?

Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
Updated on September 12, 2024
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The treatment methods for rheumatoid arthritis mainly consist of three major categories. The first category is the use of anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, commonly including non-steroidal analgesics such as sustained-release diclofenac sodium tablets, and small doses of corticosteroids can also be used. For rheumatoid arthritis, the most important treatment is the choice of immunosuppressants. Commonly used immunosuppressants include methotrexate and leflunomide. After using these medications, it is necessary to regularly monitor blood routine tests and liver and kidney functions to check for possible side effects of the drugs. If the effects of the above oral medications are not satisfactory, the application of biologics can also be considered. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor, do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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How is rheumatoid arthritis treated?

The treatment methods for rheumatoid arthritis mainly fall into three categories: The first category is anti-inflammatory analgesics, which include non-steroidal analgesic drugs such as slow-release diclofenac sodium. For patients with especially high inflammatory indicators, low-dose corticosteroids may also be considered. The second category of drugs includes slow-acting drugs commonly used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, such as methotrexate and leflunomide, which are immunosuppressants. If the patient does not respond well to non-steroidal analgesic drugs or immunosuppressants, biological agents can be considered as a treatment option. Common biological agents include tumor necrosis factor antagonists. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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How long does it take to cure rheumatoid arthritis?

The symptoms of rheumatic arthritis, such as joint swelling and pain, generally improve on their own within about two weeks, with the longest duration not exceeding one month. However, since rheumatic arthritis is triggered by a Streptococcus infection, if the Streptococcus infection is not actively controlled, it is easy for the arthritis to relapse after the joint pain has improved. Therefore, for patients with rheumatic arthritis, it is essential to treat the Streptococcus infection early. Treatment with second-generation cephalosporin antibiotics for 10-14 days is recommended, followed by regular long-acting benzathine penicillin treatment at outpatient clinics to achieve a complete cure of rheumatic arthritis. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Criteria

The diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis include, first, the presence of swelling and pain in multiple joints, especially characterized and significant in the smaller joints. Second, serological tests show elevated levels of antibodies, commonly rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies. If both are elevated, it is most meaningful. Third, the duration of joint swelling and pain should be more than six weeks. Fourth, we must also check some inflammatory markers for joints, such as elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. If these markers are elevated, and the patient has swelling and pain in multiple joints, then we can consider a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

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Written by Liu Li Ning
Rheumatology
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Do you need to take X-rays for rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis requires imaging, especially of the affected joints. It is typically necessary to do this routinely. The main purpose is to check for any bone damage, primarily to differentiate it from rheumatoid arthritis. Because rheumatoid arthritis generally does not leave joint deformities, while rheumatoid arthritis, if not treated properly, can lead to bone destruction and in severe cases, joint fusion. In addition to imaging, rheumatoid arthritis also requires complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, anti-streptolysin O, and echocardiography among other tests to comprehensively assess the condition and determine the treatment plan.

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Written by Li Jing
Rheumatology
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What is the best medicine to take for rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a clinical manifestation of rheumatic fever, which is a delayed sequelae that occurs after infection with streptococci. The most common symptoms include fever, arthritis, rheumatic heart disease, subcutaneous nodules, or marginal erythema. It mainly occurs in adolescents and is most commonly triggered by cold weather and damp environments. In cases showing joint symptoms, the first choice of medication is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Additionally, it is crucial to actively treat the primary disease, which means eliminating the causative factor by eradicating the streptococcal infection. Eradication of the streptococcal infection involves the use of long-acting penicillin, and it is necessary to complete the treatment course of two weeks. Moreover, appropriate rest during the acute phase and avoiding exertion is needed. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician and do not self-medicate.)