A doctor will usually administer an RF test is RA is suspected. Blood work and X-rays are often performed as well. The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is a test given to people with suspected rheumatic diseases (like lupus). A sed rate test is used to monitor the activity of a patient’s RA.
Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis focuses on reducing swelling, relieving pain and stiffness, reducing inflammation and maintaining normal joint function. Prescription medication is the method used to control RA most often. Two types of medications are used:
- Symptomatic medications such as NSAIDs and aspirin help reduce joint pain, stiffness and swelling.
- Disease-modifying medications include low doses of prednisone, methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine (and other antimalarials), azulfidine, gold salts and cyclosporine, sulfasalazine, D-Penicillamine, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine and minocycline
In addition, treatment also focuses on exercise, rest, joint protection, and physical and occupational therapy. Surgery may help patients with severely damaged and painful joints. A balance of rest and exercise can should be maintained to maximize use of the joints.
