How to treat rheumatic diseases

  Early, rational and regular use of NSAIDs can often reduce joint and muscle pain and achieve good results. However, this does not mean that the use of NSAIDs alone is sufficient for the treatment of the disease. Because the mechanism of action of NSAIDs is only to inhibit inflammation and reduce pain by controlling the production of inflammatory mediators, it does not inhibit the process of the disease itself.  In rheumatoid arthritis, for example, it cannot control the development of joint lesions and many other extra-articular manifestations. If not supplemented with other medications in a timely manner, the joint lesions can often progress to fusion and complete loss of function. The progression of the disease can also lead to irreversible damage to other organs and systems in the body. Therefore, for progressive rheumatic diseases, our focus should not only be on symptom control, but also on stopping the progression of the disease. Although the role of NSAIDs is important, they cannot replace hormones and immunosuppressants, and this must be made very clear.