Pain Relief for Rheumatism

Rheumatism is a term used to describe diseases that affect the joints and the tissue connecting the joints. Rheumatism includes many disorders including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatic heart disease. These disorders can be painful. There are several methods available to treat this pain.

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs

• Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help joint and tissue pain. NSAIDs are the most common form of pain relievers prescribed to a patient suffering from a rheumatic disease. NSAIDs relieve inflammation of the joints and reduce pain. Many, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are available as over the counter drugs and do not require a prescription. If the patient is a heavy drinker, aspirin should not be taken as it can cause bleeding in the stomach.

COX 2 Inhibitors

• Take COX 2 inhibitors if prescribed by a doctor. COX 2 inhibitors are another form of NSAIDs that attack COX-2 in the body. COX-2 causes inflammation and pain in the joints. COX 2 inhibitors do not have the same side effects that other NSAIDs have such as bleeding and renal failure. COX 2 inhibitors take longer to take effect so are often taken along with other NSAIDs.

Steroids

• Steroids can be used for joint pain under the supervision of a doctor. Steroids are given in low doses as an oral supplement or can be injected directly into the joints by a doctor. Steroids can relieve pain quickly.