Your doctor will recommend treatments to help stop inflammation and put the RA in remission. The sooner you begin treatment the better since it will help prevent further damage from the disease.

Drug treatments, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be prescribed to help relieve symptoms. Prescription medications, such as corticosteroids and other types of drugs, may keep the disease under control. Since some of these drugs have the risk of side effects, your doctor will carefully monitor your dosage. Surgery, such as hip and knee replacement, is also an option for some RA patients.

If you have RA, you can be proactive about your own care. A healthy diet, including foods that are rich in antioxidants, is important to help keep RA under control. Getting enough exercise and rest are also an essential for managing RA. Your doctor can recommend lifestyle modifications that will help you take control of your own well-being.