It takes a medical degree, a 3 year Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship to learn how to best treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. There are many nuances and caveats and even seasoned rheumatologists find themselves asking for help from colleagues. But it doesn’t serve anyone to leave all the decision making to the doctor. Although the topic can get complicated, there are concepts that everyone with RA should be familiar with. Understanding the strategy behind why your doctor prescribes certain medications can ensure that you continue to have productive and effective conversations.
When approaching RA therapy, the treatment options reside in two categories: anti-inflammatory and anti-RA (or diseases modifying, as your doctor will call them). Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, naprosyn, diclofenac and even prednisone, help you feel better here and now. They decrease inflammation in your joints and consequently lower your pain. These medications are not specific for rheumatoid arthritis, as many reach for these medications for headaches, menstrual cramps and muscle soreness.
The second category of medications, anti-RA, or disease modifying medications, change the course of rheumatoid arthritis. They don’t simply bring down inflammation, but they actually modify the immune system, rendering RA less active. Both types of medications are necessary for a successful long term treatment strategy for RA.
[Read more…] about Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment – pt 1