Medications And Rheumatoid Athritis  

by Antony Rangley

There is a choice of prescription arthritis medications which doctors can give to treat rheumatoid arthritis. While these arthritis medications may not provide a cure for, they can relieve pain, relieve symptoms, and even slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

Anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs can relieve inflammation and pain. These drugs can be used as an arthritis medicine and can be purchased over the counter and via. (A lot of people are aware of aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.) The only negative side to these arthritis medications is they can lead to stomach problems, such as indigestion and bleeding. They can also raise an individual's blood pressure and make them susceptible to fluid retention.

COX-2 inhibitors are a kind of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which cause less issues with the stomach. This class of arthritis medication works by suppressing an enzyme known as cyclooxygenase which is an issue in inflammation. However, fluid retention and above normal blood pressure may result as side effects of COX-2 inhibitors. Reports are also coming in that people who take this class of drug may be more at risk from a stroke or heart attack.

Corticosteroids are arthritis medications which may reduce pain and inflammation. They can also moderate the damage to joints brought on by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, many arthritis patients who take corticosteroids report they feel substantially improved. However, after a time the effectiveness of corticosteroids may wear off. There is also the chance of suffering severe side effects such as diabetes, weight gain, and decreased bone density, after long-time use of corticosteroids.

It is crucial to see a doctor at the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis. While modern medicine has not been able to provide a cure for arthritis, they are making strides in pain relief and reducing the pace of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Immunosuppressants might be used as an arthritis medication to assist with he balance of the immune system. Without such treatment, the immune system in rheumatoid arthritis patients is not balanced and it is out of control. TNF blockers are sometimes used together with an immunosuppressant. TNF blockers work by blocking the protein which inflames the joints. Those on TNF blockers have reported that pain was reduced and stiffness alleviated.

Those diagnosed swiftly with rheumatoid arthritis can be given arthritis medications referred to as disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. These drugs slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis. So, if the arthritis is diagnosed early, a lot of damage to the joints can be forestalled.

About the Author

Antony Rangley writes for www.your-arthritis-choices.com<a/> You will find a lot of very useful Arthritis information together with news, articles and a huge range of resources. Take a look now!