Remedies for Rheumatism and Arthritis
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Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, nabumetone and salsalate work to reduce inflammation and also the fever often associated with rheumatism. As the conditions progress, however, patients often find these drugs aren't as effective.
Corticosteroids
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Corticosteroids such as prednisone and cortisone may be used to treat severe swelling. Oral corticosteroids cannot be used for long periods of time as they have severe side effects. A single cortisone injection typically works for months to relieve pain.
Hot and Cold Compresses
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Hot and cold compresses may be used for spot pain relief. Doctors recommend not leaving cold compresses on for more than 15 minutes and to leave them off for 30 minutes in between applications. Hot compresses can be left on as tolerated as long as they are not so hot as to burn the skin.
Creams with Capsaicin
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Creams with capasaicin rubbed into affected joints have been proven to be effective in controlling inflammation and pain. Creams with menthol, camphor and turpentine oil have not been proven effective for lasting pain relief or control of anything more than minor pain.
Exercise
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Physical therapy and general exercise can help reduce inflammation by keeping the joint active. Doing exercise in water, particularly warm water, can help relieve discomfort.
Other Treatments
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Other treatments being studied include antimalarial drugs, a solution containing gold salts, immunosuppressant drugs and antibiotics.
Folklore
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Popular wisdom holds that bee venom will control and even cure rheumatism. This belief has been proven unfounded and can even be fatal in people with allergic reactions to bees.
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