Duration of Rheumatoid Arthritis
RA is a progressive and chronic disease. Damage to the joint bones occurs very early in the progression of the disease, typically within the first two years, according to the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center.That's why early treatment is so important.
With effective, early treatment, most people with RA can live as they normally would, and many people can achieve remission of symptoms. This doesn't mean that you're cured but rather that your symptoms are alleviated to the point where you can function at your fullest and your joints are not being further damaged by RA. It's also possible to achieve remission and then relapse, or have your symptoms return.
But remission doesn't happen for everyone, and because the pain and other symptoms of RA may change over time, pain management can be an ongoing concern. In addition to pain medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids, there are many options for pain relief for people living with RA. These include, among others:
- Fish oil supplements
- Hot and cold treatments
- Exercise and movement
- Mind-body modalities such as mindfulness-based stress reduction and acceptance and commitment therapy
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