Rheumatoid arthritis: what to watch for and how to manage it

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that mainly attacks the lining of your joints. It often starts with stiffness and pain in small joints like fingers and toes. Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes is a common clue. RA can cause swelling, fatigue, low-grade fever, and loss of joint function over time.

Early diagnosis matters. Doctors use symptoms, blood tests like rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP, and imaging to confirm RA. Seeing a rheumatologist early improves outcomes. Treatment aims to control inflammation, prevent joint damage, and keep you active.

Treatment options

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are the backbone of RA care. Methotrexate is the most common first choice. It slows disease progress and lowers long-term joint damage risk. If methotrexate alone is not enough, doctors may add another DMARD or switch to a biologic drug. Biologics target specific parts of the immune system, for example TNF inhibitors. These can work well when standard drugs fail.

Steroids like prednisolone reduce swelling fast and are useful for flares. Use them short term and at the lowest dose possible because of side effects. NSAIDs ease pain but do not stop disease progression.

Daily management tips

Regular exercise keeps joints mobile and builds muscle that supports them. Focus on low-impact activities: walking, swimming, yoga, or gentle strength training. A physical therapist can suggest safe routines and splints for swollen joints.

Watch your diet. No single diet cures RA, but an anti-inflammatory pattern helps many people. Eat more oily fish, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and nuts. Some people find benefits from supplements like fish oil, curcumin, or boswellia, but check with your doctor before starting anything new.

Protect your joints with simple changes. Use larger joints to carry weight, take breaks during repetitive tasks, and choose tools that reduce strain. Good sleep helps recovery and reduces pain.

Keep up with monitoring and vaccinations. DMARDs and biologics can raise infection risk, so doctors will order regular blood tests and advise seasonal vaccines. Tell your doctor if you plan pregnancy; many RA drugs need to be stopped or changed before conception.

Mental health matters. Chronic pain and fatigue can trigger anxiety or depression. Talk openly with your care team and consider counseling or support groups.

If you get new symptoms like sudden severe pain, high fever, or quick loss of joint use, seek medical help. Early, steady treatment gives the best chance to control RA and keep your life moving.

Smoking makes RA worse and reduces treatment response. If you smoke, quitting improves outcomes. Keeping a healthy weight lowers joint stress and may reduce inflammation. Occupational therapists can teach smarter ways to do daily tasks and reduce pain. Foot care matters; get fitted shoes and consider orthopedic inserts. Some people try acupuncture or massage for symptom relief. These can help with pain but not disease control. Always tell your doctor about supplements or alternative treatments. Plan ahead for surgeries and discuss medication timing with your surgeon.

Stay informed and work with your care team every step.