Does rheumatoid arthritis have anything to do with drinking alcohol?

Written by Liu Li Ning
Rheumatology
Updated on March 28, 2025
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Rheumatoid arthritis is not causally related to alcohol consumption. There is a certain correlation between rheumatoid arthritis and Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus infection. Clinically, it is mainly manifested as joint pain or arthritis, primarily affecting major joints. Symptoms can include redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the joints, which are migratory, and generally do not leave joint deformities. During the acute phase of rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to immobilize the joints. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as etoricoxib or diclofenac sodium sustained-release capsules, can be used to relieve symptoms. If accompanied by myocarditis, glucocorticoids can also be applied in combination therapy.

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Written by Liu Li Ning
Rheumatology
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Do you need to take X-rays for rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis requires imaging, especially of the affected joints. It is typically necessary to do this routinely. The main purpose is to check for any bone damage, primarily to differentiate it from rheumatoid arthritis. Because rheumatoid arthritis generally does not leave joint deformities, while rheumatoid arthritis, if not treated properly, can lead to bone destruction and in severe cases, joint fusion. In addition to imaging, rheumatoid arthritis also requires complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, anti-streptolysin O, and echocardiography among other tests to comprehensively assess the condition and determine the treatment plan.

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Rheumatoid arthritis massage techniques

For the acute phase of rheumatoid arthritis, which is when the joints are significantly swollen and painful, it is not advisable to perform any form of massage. Both massage and intense exercise could potentially worsen the joint swelling and pain. At this time, what is needed is strict bed rest. After the acute phase of the joints eases, then consider some methods of exercise. In managing the acute phase of rheumatoid arthritis, one can consider using some anti-inflammatory pain relievers. The most commonly used are non-steroidal pain relievers, such as diclofenac sodium, to control joint pain, rather than massaging the joints, as this could only make the condition worse. (Please follow medical advice regarding specific medications.)

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnostic Criteria

The diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis include, first, the presence of swelling and pain in multiple joints, especially characterized and significant in the smaller joints. Second, serological tests show elevated levels of antibodies, commonly rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies. If both are elevated, it is most meaningful. Third, the duration of joint swelling and pain should be more than six weeks. Fourth, we must also check some inflammatory markers for joints, such as elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. If these markers are elevated, and the patient has swelling and pain in multiple joints, then we can consider a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

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Written by Liu Li Ning
Rheumatology
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Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by what?

Rheumatic arthritis is a type of infectious arthritis caused by streptococcal infection and is one of the clinical manifestations of rheumatism. It primarily presents as migratory pain in large joints, most commonly affecting the large joints of the lower limbs, such as the knees, ankles, wrists, etc. Since rheumatic arthritis is related to streptococcal infection, treatment mainly involves the use of penicillin drugs, commonly long-acting penicillin, which requires strict adherence to the treatment course to completely cure the streptococcal infection. During the acute phase, joint pain often occurs, hence the common use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as diclofenac sodium and etoricoxib, to alleviate symptoms of pain. During acute episodes, bed rest is necessary, with attention to joint immobilization. During the remission period, getting out of bed and exercising is encouraged to restore joint function and flexibility. (Please use medications under the guidance of a professional physician; do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Yang Ya Meng
Rheumatology
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How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis primarily relies on blood tests, radiological examinations, and the patient's own symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis is often referred to as internal rheumatoid arthritis. For a definitive diagnosis: Firstly, the patient must exhibit symmetrical swelling and pain in the joints of both hands, including the small joints. Further screening through blood tests shows elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein, which are two inflammatory markers. Additionally, the presence of rheumatoid factors, anti-CCP antibodies, and AKA antibodies being positive also play a role. Simultaneously, if radiological imaging suggests joint space narrowing and bone damage, this further supports the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.