Latest Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved Baricitinib as a new pharmacological treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, applicable for cases ranging from moderate to severe. Other available treatments for rheumatoid arthritis include:
-
Pharmacological Treatments:
- Steroid medications, such as Prednisone, which aid in reducing pain, inflammation, and slowing joint damage.
- Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) that help protect joints and surrounding tissues from permanent damage while slowing the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that relieve pain and inflammation, including Ibuprofen.
- Physical Therapy: Exercise routines utilized in physical therapy can maintain joint flexibility, while devices used in treatment may help alleviate pressure on painful joints.
-
Home Remedies:
- Applying heat and cold to affected joints. Cold therapy can relieve muscle spasms due to its numbing effect, while heat can reduce pain and relax tense muscles.
- Practicing relaxation techniques.
- Engaging in regular exercise, which strengthens muscles surrounding the joints.
-
Surgical Options:
- Complete joint replacement.
- Joint fusion.
- Tendon repair.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Joint pain.
- Joint stiffness.
- Joint swelling.
- Loss of joint function.
Risk Factors for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis, including:
- Age: The risk of rheumatoid arthritis is higher in individuals over 60 years old.
- Smoking: Tobacco use elevates the risk, particularly among smokers and children exposed to secondhand smoke.
- Obesity: Individuals with obesity have a greater chance of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
- Gender: Rheumatoid arthritis is more prevalent in women.
- Genetic predisposition: The presence of certain genes can heighten the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.