The best and safest treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Medications can include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow down the progression of the disease. Lifestyle changes can include regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management.
For those with mild to moderate rheumatoid arthritis, taking NSAIDs and/or corticosteroids may be enough to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. For more severe cases, DMARDs may be necessary to slow down the progression of the disease and prevent permanent joint damage. DMARDs can include drugs such as methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, and leflunomide. These drugs need to be taken regularly for long periods of time and can have serious side effects, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about any potential risks before starting them.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can help to manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, and low-impact aerobics, can help to reduce stiffness and strengthen the muscles around joints. Eating a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet can help to reduce inflammation and provide essential nutrients, and managing stress can help to reduce flares.
Overall, the best and safest treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. While medications can provide relief from symptoms, lifestyle changes can help to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms long-term. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any potential risks associated with medications and to make sure that lifestyle changes fit in with your individual needs.