How to Control Rheumatoid Factors

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an auto-immune disease that causes the small joints in your hands and feet to swell and become painful. Your immune system attacks your joints and tissues in your body, causing inflammation and pain. Your doctor can diagnose the severity of your RA with a blood test for rheumatoid factors. A high level of rheumatoid factors can also be an indication of other diseases, such as cancer and lupus.

RA typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 60. Symptoms may start as a fever, morning stiffness that lasts several hours, joint swelling and tenderness, and red puffy hands. These symptoms get worse as RA progresses. While there is no cure for RA, there are medications that can help to control the rheumatoid factors present in your body.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with your doctor for a consultation and blood test. If a high level of rheumatoid factors are present in your blood, your doctor may refer you to a rheumatologist. A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of RA.

• 2

  Learn about your medication options. Over-the-counter and prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Motrin, Advil and Alleve are examples of over-the-counter NSAIDs. Side effects can include an increased chance of bruising, ringing in your ears and stomach upset.

  Steroids reduce inflammation and pain. They can also slow the joint damage caused by RA. Medrol is a common steroid prescribed for RA. Side effects may be weight gain, thinning of the bones, a round face and diabetes.

  Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can save joints and tissues from permanent damage by slowing the effects of RA. Medications in this class include Trexali, Rheumatrex, Arava and Minocin. Side effects may include liver damage, bone marrow suppression and severe lung infections.

  Immunosuppressants help to calm your immune system and prevent it from attacking your joints and tissues. Imuran, Azasan, Meoral and Cytoxan are examples. Immunosuppressants can increase your risk for infections.

  Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is a substance produced by your body that causes inflammation. TNF-alpha inhibitors can help to reduce pain, morning stiffness and tender or swollen joints. Relief may be felt within the first two weeks of taking the medication. Enbrel, Remicade and Humira are examples of this class of medications. Side effects may include injection site irritation, congestive heart failure and an increased risk of infection.

• 3

  Follow your treatment plan. If the medication your doctor prescribes is not working or causes unwanted side effects, consult with him about trying a different medication. You may have to try different medications before you find one that works the best for you.