A Comprehensive Review of Treatment Approaches and Perspectives for Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory illness that mostly affects the joints, although it can also affect other organs and limit movement. This symmetrical, chronic illness typically manifests between the ages of 35 and 60 and causes joint degradation, pain, and systemic symptoms. Because of their different clinical manifestations, RA and osteoarthritis must be distinguished from one another. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear, whereas RA is symmetrical and involves an immunological response. The goals of RA management are to lessen discomfort, reduce inflammation, and avoid joint deformities and destruction because there is currently no known treatment for RA. A combination of medication, specialized exercise, education, and rest are used in treatment plans, taking into account the disease's course, the joints that are impacted, and the patient's general health. The two main forms of treatment are corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), which reduce inflammation and discomfort but frequently present varying side effects. Disease modifying anti-rheumatic medications commonly called DMARDs, provide a backup plan by delaying the deterioration of joints and easing associated symptoms. Modern treatment options include methotrexate, hydrochloroquine, and more recent drugs like leflunomide and biologics like interleukin inhibitors and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, each with unique advantages and disadvantages. In order to improve joint function and reduce discomfort, surgical interventions—which have become less common as a result of medical advancements are taken into consideration for severe cases or end-stage RA. Physcial and occupational therapy, nutritional supplements, complementary therapies, and current molecular mechanism research provide further options for controlling RA symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for patients. This review offers a thorough analysis of both traditional and contemporary RA treatments, emphasizing the need for a multimodal strategy to effectively manage the disease and pointing out possible directions for future research and development. Keywords: Autoimmune disease, Rheumatoid arthritis, Disease-modifying drugs, Joint degradation, Osteoarthritis, Joint pain.