I can provide some general information to help you make an informed decision if you were diagnosed with early-stage (mild) rheumatoid arthritis.
The decision to start treatment for early-stage rheumatoid arthritis should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a rheumatologist. The approach to treatment will depend on various factors, including the severity of symptoms, the rate of disease progression, and the impact of arthritis on your daily life and function.
Here are some considerations for both options:
- Opting for Immediate Treatment:
- Early treatment can help control inflammation and prevent joint damage. It may slow down or even halt the progression of the disease.
- Medications like disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic agents have been shown to be effective in managing rheumatoid arthritis and improving quality of life.
- Starting treatment early may reduce the risk of long-term joint damage and disability.
- Monitoring and Delaying Treatment:
- In some cases of mild early-stage rheumatoid arthritis, healthcare professionals might suggest a "watch and wait" approach to monitor the progression of the disease before initiating medication.
- Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing stress, can be beneficial in managing mild symptoms.
- Regular check-ups and monitoring of symptoms and disease progression are crucial to assess if and when treatment might be necessary.
It is essential to recognize that rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive disease, and joint damage can occur even in its early stages. Delaying treatment without proper monitoring and guidance from a healthcare professional could potentially lead to more severe symptoms and irreversible joint damage.
Ultimately, the decision to start treatment immediately or wait and monitor the condition should be made in collaboration with your healthcare provider. They can consider your individual health status, disease progression, lifestyle, and preferences to develop a personalized treatment plan that offers the best possible outcomes for your specific situation.