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The most debilitating form of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Unlike other forms of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. It attacks joints and internal organs, causing severe inflammations and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis is the fastest-acting form of arthritis, with most of the damage done within the first two-five years. We can't cure it and we can't prevent it, but if the condition is diagnosed early enough, we can minimize the secondary damage and slow down its progress. Usually the "first line" drugs in the fight against RA are Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. Many of them can be bought without prescription, though the strongest ones must be prescribed by your doctor. Another important "first line" defense is a proper diet, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. They reduce the problems related to decreased joint mobility as well as reduce the inflammations. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish oil, but unless you switch to some fish-rich diet permanently, food supplements such as Omega Daily are much better solution. Biologics are another branch of anti-RA drugs. They work by modifying the body's reactions in an attempt to stop the immune system from attacking the joints. They are quite effective, but their price is much above the level of an average citizen - especially that this treatment is covered only by the most expensive policies. DMARD are another family of drugs used to treat RA. Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs have, unlike NSAIDs, little effect on the inflammations themselves. Their role however, is much more important: they minimize the damage done by the disease. Besides medications, there is also a few other things you may want to do in order to make your life with rheumatoid arthritis easier. First, you need to accept that RA won't go, so you can't simply "wait until it is gone." While some activities are beyond of your reach, it does not mean that you can only sit down and watch TV. Another important thing is that you need to do some sport. While you may feel it is safer to put no stress at all to your joints, this will only speed up the disease progress. Strong muscles reduce the impact of RA and increase the flexibility of your joints. However, you'd better choose such exercises that do not harm your joints - usually swimming is the best idea. Remember, RA is too common disease to ignore it. It affects about 1% of the population and can't be cured. If you feel some pain in the joints and you feel stiff in the morning, contact your doctor immediately - there is a good chance that you've got rheumatoid arthritis.
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The Article Author: John Andrews reports on subjects that are important in helping people help themselves. For more information on Omega Daily and Omega-3 fatty acids just click on the links.
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