Last updated on October 7th, 2024 at 05:11 pm
What is arthritis?
Arthritis, or joint inflammation, causes joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty walking. Globally, more than 350 million people have arthritis. While there is no known cure, current arthritic medicines are significantly superior to those available just ten years ago. New research raises the possibility of even more advanced treatments.
What are the causes of arthritis?
Joint system damage is the main cause of arthritis. This can occur due to several reasons, such as:
- Infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, and toxic materials
- Gout
- Psoriasis
- Family history
- Certain hormones
- Injury to joints
- Lack of physical exercise
- Obesity
- Joint defects
Also, some types of arthritis have specific causes:
- Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is caused by the loss of cartilage that normally protects the bones in the joints.
- Rheumatoid arthritis results from the immune system attacking the body’s tissues. This causes inflammation in the lining of the joints.
Which arthritis medicines are available in the market?
Lots of arthritis medicine are available to reduce the symptoms. Some medications are available over the counter (OTC), while others require a prescription.
The kind and severity of arthritis, the pain level, how much it affects your daily activities, and your preferences for arthritis medicine and other therapies all influence the treatment options.
Ideally, you must consult your physician to determine the best medicine for arthritis pain.
Treatment focuses on reducing pain and inflammation while improving joint function. Within a year or two of the onset of the condition, rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis can damage the joints. Therefore, early diagnosis and starting rheumatoid arthritis medication are essential. The arthritis medicine that may be prescribed include:
Acetaminophen/Paracetamol
This is usually the first medication recommended when treating mild to severe pain. Typically, it is offered as an OTC drug. It can be administered as tablets, gels, or creams. Overdosing might harm the liver.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
These include aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, and others in the form of tablets, ointments, and gels. They are used to treat moderate to severe pain. Some are OTCs, while others require a prescription. They may cause heartburn and stomach ulcers.
Corticosteroids
These are powerful anti-inflammatory arthritis medicine. Taking them for prolonged periods can cause increased hunger, weight gain, mood changes and sleep disturbances. Prescription medicines are given as tablets, injections and ointments.
Opioid analgesics
These relieve pain by acting on pain receptors in the brain. They are potent painkillers that require a prescription as they can be habit-forming. They can be used alone or in combination with NSAIDs. They can cause dry mouth and drowsiness.
Injections into the joint
Often, when the joints lack lubrication, doctors may prescribe the following treatments over and above typical medicines:
- Doctors may administer hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) shots over 3-5 weeks. It restores the lubrication of the joint and reduces the symptoms.
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy assists in the growth of new tissue by releasing other proteins and growth factors. When PRP is effective, patients typically get long-lasting relief because the worn-out tissue begins to repair. Since these are injected into the joint, chances of infection exist.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are given as injections or infusions. They slow or halt the inflammatory process and prevent further joint damage. Eg: hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate, leflunomide or sulfasalazine. These arthritis medications take 3 to 6 months to work. Biologic DMARDs, such as tumour necrosis factor inhibitors, suppress the immune system and can reduce your ability to fight infection.
The best medicine for arthritis pain in the knees and other joints is often a combination of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Your doctor will prescribe the necessary strength and dosage of the medicines.
Arthritis can be treated
Early diagnosis and treatment may reduce the risk of joint damage and mobility problems. Many people learn that they can control the symptoms of arthritis by following a well-planned, personalized arthritis medicine treatment schedule suggested by their doctor. Diet, exercise, and knowing when to rest are all part of a plan for properly managing arthritis pain.
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FAQs related to Arthritis
1. How is arthritis diagnosed?
Based on your symptoms and physical examination, your doctor may order lab tests, X-rays, CT or MRI to help confirm the diagnosis.
2. Who is prone to arthritis?
People over 65 years, especially women, are prone to arthritis.
3. What are the common symptoms of arthritis?
Pain, swollen and warm joints, difficulty in movement, and depression are some of the common symptoms.
