Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease where white blood cells suddenly attack healthy tissues, specifically joints and cartilage. There are a few ways to help ease the symptoms, depending on which stage of the disease you are in. If you are in the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis there is a new disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) which has done an excellent job in controlling symptoms. It works best in the initial stages, so if you suspect you may have rheumatoid arthritis, see your doctor as soon as possible.
There are other options if you are in later stages of rheumatoid arthritis. These are also helpful if you are still in early stages. One is to use anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. This does a great job reducing pain and inflammation. However, these have side effects including heart problems and gastrointestinal bleeding. You can also use acetaminophen for your rheumatoid arthritis, which does not have these side effects.
When symptoms are mild, moderate exercising including stretching, weight lifting, and aerobics ease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Be sure to rest when your joints flare up as this would...