A Complete Guide to Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis | Hong Kong Editor Patiently Explains

Hello everyone, today I'd like to discuss a chronic disease: rheumatoid arthritis (RA) . This condition isn't just simple joint pain; it's an autoimmune disease . When the body's immune system goes awry, it attacks the lining of the joints (synovium), causing chronic inflammation, pain, swelling, and stiffness . This can damage joints and disrupt daily life over time.

According to the Hospital Authority, in Hong Kong, female patients are approximately three times more likely to develop the disease than males. The disease is most common between the ages of 30 and 50, but can occur at any age. Because the condition is long-term and recurrent, the goal of treatment is not to cure it, but to control inflammation, alleviate symptoms, delay joint damage, and improve quality of life .

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1. Treatment principles for rheumatoid arthritis

The medical community agrees that " early diagnosis and early treatment " are the key to controlling the disease. Treatment is mainly divided into:

• Drug therapy (core)
• Physical therapy and exercise
• Surgical treatment
• Lifestyle adjustments and self-management

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2. Common drug treatment options in Hong Kong

2.1 Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)

• Traditional DMARDs : such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine, hydroxychloroquine, and leflunomide
  • Effect: Suppress immune response and slow down joint damage
  • Methotrexate is the gold standard for RA treatment in Hong Kong, but regular blood tests are required to monitor liver and kidney function.
• Biologics : such as adalimumab, etanercept, and tocilizumab
  • Targeting specific immune molecules (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6)
  • The effect is significant, but the cost is relatively high. Some of the treatments can be obtained through specialists or subsidy programs of the Hospital Authority.
• Targeted synthetic DMARDs (tsDMARDs) : such as the JAK inhibitors baricitinib and tofacitinib
  • Oral medications targeting immune signaling pathways

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2.2 Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

• Relieve pain and inflammation, such as ibuprofen and naproxen
• It only provides short-term symptom relief and cannot slow the progression of the disease.
• Be careful of gastrointestinal, renal, and cardiovascular side effects with long-term use

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2.3 Corticosteroids

• For example, prednisone
• Rapidly reduces inflammation, often used during acute attacks
• Long-term use has many side effects (osteoporosis, diabetes, weight gain), so doctors will try to use the lowest effective dose.

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3. Application of non-drug treatments in Hong Kong

3.1 Physiotherapy

• Improve joint flexibility
• Teach patients the correct way to exercise
• Reduce muscle atrophy

3.2 Occupational Therapy

• Teaching how to use assistive devices (eg, canes, special utensils)
• Improve daily activities and reduce joint burden

3.3 Exercise and rehabilitation

• Exercises suitable for RA patients: swimming, water exercises, stretching, low-impact aerobics
• Editor's reminder: You should rest during the acute inflammation period and start exercising only after the condition stabilizes

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4. Surgical treatment

When medications fail to control the condition or joint damage is severe, Hong Kong hospitals will provide:

• Joint replacement surgery (artificial knee joint, artificial hip joint)
• Synovectomy
• Arthrodesis

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5. Lifestyle and self-management

• Eat a balanced diet : high in omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseed), fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains
• Quit smoking : Smoking can worsen RA symptoms
• Maintaining a healthy weight : reducing stress on joints
• Psychological support : Long-term chronic diseases can easily lead to depression or anxiety. You can seek support groups or professional counseling.
• Regular follow-up : The Hong Kong Hospital Authority will arrange blood tests, X-rays or ultrasounds for RA patients to monitor their condition.

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6. Editor’s Summary

Rheumatoid arthritis is more than just joint pain; it's an immune system disorder that requires long-term management . Hong Kong's healthcare system offers a comprehensive selection of medications and specialist support. With early diagnosis, cooperative treatment, and healthy lifestyle habits , most patients can maintain a good quality of life.

A final word of caution : RA is a long-term race, not a short battle. Treatment requires persistence. Don't stop medication just because you feel pain-free for a short period of time, as this may cause your condition to rebound more quickly.

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⚠️ Disclaimer <br>This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. The source is referenced from major medical articles.