Rheumatoid arthritis, also termed as rheumatism, is a condition wherein the immune system of the body attacks its own tissues. It is a disease that mainly affects the joints and the lining of the joints, leading to painful bulging and swelling. Other symptoms of this are anemia, chronic tiredness and irritability, stiffness, flu-like symptoms. The condition needs immediate medical attention as a delay in treatment can result in loss of bone and disproportion of the joint.

Rheumatoid arthritis treatments can differ from person to person depending upon the symptoms. But it is advisable to get the condition treated from an experienced professional instead of merely depending on alternative therapies.

Types of rheumatoid arthritis

Listed below are the various types of rheumatoid arthritis:

• Seropositive rheumatoid arthritis : It is the most common type of this disease and may be genetic. In this condition, the antibodies present in the body are responsible for weakening the immune system. This means that one’s blood report is likely to show the presence of positive rheumatoid antibodies.
• Seronegative rheumatoid arthritis: This kind of arthritis is just a reverse version of seropositive rheumatoid arthritis. In case you are diagnosed with this condition, you are likely to have a negative rheumatoid factor blood test and anti-CCP result. The eventual development of antibodies might turn this type into seropositive rheumatoid arthritis.
• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA): This condition is mostly found in youngsters below 18 years of age. The signs and symptoms of this condition resemble typical rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. However, in rare cases, problems relating to eyesight and physical growth might crop up.

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis

To ease the discomfort, swelling, and pain some medications and supplements are advisable. Most of the time, physiotherapy is recommended to minimize and manage the pain caused due to inflammation of the joints. Below are some of the commonly recommended clinical and non-clinical rheumatoid arthritis treatments discussed:

• Medication : Various kinds of medication for RA are available in the market. Some of these medications do claim to overcome the pain and inflammation of RA. Options like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs), corticosteroids, acetaminophen, etc. are prescribed for patients suffering from this condition. Some other latest supplements like DMARDs and Janus kinase inhibitors are also prescribed in certain cases.
• Healthy diet : Food rich in antioxidants, vitamins, green leafy vegetables, and omega-3 is advised to be included in the daily intake of a patient. Also, one must include superfoods like walnuts, flax seeds, and chia seeds on a daily basis.
• Yoga and exercise : A low-intensity exercise can improve the flexibility of joints. It can also strengthen muscles and relieve pain in the joints. Yoga can prove to be beneficial in regaining strength and flexibility of muscles and joints.
• Home remedies : Using hot or cold compresses on the affected area might give temporary relief. Moreover, the intake of plenty of liquids and rest will also go a long way in helping manage the condition.
• Other treatments : Some of the other treatments include acupuncture, splinting joints, and hydrotherapy.