1. Get OTC Arthritis Relief
NSAIDs are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat many forms of arthritis. NSAIDs reduce the swelling in your joint, which in turn relieves pain. Naproxen, aspirin and ibuprofen are all over-the-counter NSAIDs that are effective for many who suffer from osteoarthritis. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) isn't considered an NSAID because it is a pain reliever, not an anti-inflammatory. Beware of the side effects of NSAIDs, especially when taken for a long period of time. NSAIDs can cause stomach upset and bleeding in the stomach. NSAIDs also have a limit in their effectiveness; they do not work better if the dosage goes beyond the point of effectiveness.
2. Stronger Pain Requires Stronger Meds
Prescription medications may include analgesics, anti-inflammatories combined with narcotic based pain relievers, steroids like prednisone and cortisone, prescription strength NSAIDs and prescription strength aspirin. Because prescription medication is much stronger than over-the-counter, never mix them or take other drugs unless your doctor is aware of all the drugs you're taking. Prescription drug side effects to be aware of include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, bleeding, bruising, ulcer, headache, dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience any of these symptoms, notify your doctor immediately.
3. Modify the Disease With DMARDs
DMARDs are disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs that help to slow or even stop the progression of certain types of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis. If the disease is caught in the early stages, using DMARDs will help prevent extensive joint damage. Because DMARDs take quite a while to show results, most doctors will start you on DMARDs as soon as you are diagnosed. DMARDs work by suppressing your own immune system, which works overtime in many cases of inflammatory arthritis. Watch for signs of infection while taking DMARDs, such as a fever, chills, pain, redness or swelling or symptoms of a cold or the flu. Call your doctor should you experience any symptoms of infection, and discuss the need to modify your dosage temporarily.
4. Pursue a Biochemical Response
Biochemical response modifiers are a type of DMARDs, but they work to block the body response of inflammation. Most people who take biological response modifiers achieve good results and some experience a remission. This type of drug stops your response of inflammation and may also stop the progression of the disease. Biochemical response modifiers are more expensive than DMARDs and must be given either by an IV or by injection.
5. Alternative Specialized Drugs
Glucosamine and chondroitin are supplements that many patients use to prevent further damage to joints and cartilage; many doctors agree and often prescribe the two supplements. A lidocaine patch can be applied to the skin to relieve pain; over-the-counter heat therapy patches are also available. Gels and rubs containing aspirin can relieve pain because your skin absorbs the aspirin. Other rubs increase blood flow to the area, which relieves pain. Botox injections and injections to add fluid to the joints are treatments to ask the doctor about.
