Managing a flare without NSAIDs or steroids is definitely possible — there are both medication-based and at-home options worth exploring with your rheumatologist.
On the medication side, DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) are a key option. These work to slow RA activity and protect your joints from long-term Show Full Answer
Managing a flare without NSAIDs or steroids is definitely possible — there are both medication-based and at-home options worth exploring with your rheumatologist.
On the medication side, DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs) are a key option. These work to slow RA activity and protect your joints from long-term damage. There are a few types:
- Conventional DMARDs like methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, leflunomide, and sulfasalazine
- Biologic DMARDs like adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel), rituximab (Rituxan), and infliximab (Remicade)
- Targeted synthetic DMARDs like tofacitinib (Xeljanz), baricitinib (Olumiant), and upadacitinib (Rinvoq)
If you're already on a DMARD and still experiencing frequent flares, your rheumatologist may consider adjusting your dose or switching medications. Beyond medications, there are several at-home strategies that can help ease flare symptoms:
- Heat therapy — heating pads, warm baths, or hot showers can soothe stiff, sore joints
- Cold therapy — an ice pack wrapped in a towel can help reduce swelling and dull pain
- Rest — giving your body time to recover during a flare is really important
- Stress management — techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help, since stress and flares are closely linked
- Gentle exercise — keeping joints moving (when possible) helps with flexibility, but always check with your doctor first
- Diet adjustments — an anti-inflammatory diet, like the Mediterranean diet, has been linked to reduced inflammation in RA
A myRAteam member shared, "I got some relief from managing my diet and stress, and new medications." It's often a combination of approaches that works best. Definitely loop in your rheumatologist so they can tailor a plan that works for you.
July 27
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