Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis that causes unceasing irritation and swelling of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is also known to cause inflammation of the tissue surrounding the joints and the other organs of the body. Since this form of arthritis is autoimmune, it is defined by the characteristic that the progression of the disease occurs because the tissues in the body are mistakenly attacked by its own immune system. Rheumatic arthritis symptoms include a lack of appetite, fatigue, mild fever, muscle and joint aches coupled with stiffness. The stiffness of muscles and joints is usually most prominent in the mornings and after prolonged periods of inactivity.

Rheumatoid arthritis is chronic in nature and is known to show typical symptoms for an extended period of time. The peculiarity of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms is that it is an illness that causes degeneration of the joints and the surrounding tissues. People who are irritated by the fact that conventional treatments may not yield favorable results may turn to alternative medicine practices to provide them with relief. Though doctors are more open to discussing the probabilities of such alternative therapies working, very little is known of their success rate and side effects.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can be tackled with plant oils containing gamma-linolenic acid. GLA is a class of omega-6 fatty acid that can be derived from plant sources like borage, evening primrose and black currant. Studies have revealed that GLA may help lessen the pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis but may have side effects like gas, nausea and diarrhea. Fish oil containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) too is considered as a potential alternative form of medicine. Both EPA and DHA are omegea-3 fatty acids typically found in fish oil and may help the patients by reducing the pain and stiffness of affected areas. The side effects of the fish oil could be belching, nausea and a fishy taste in the mouth. More grave side effects like bleeding and mercury poisoning may be seen in case of certain patients. Both fish oil and plant oils may interfere with medications, so it is always wise to consult the doctor before opting for such treatments.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may also be cured by Tai Chi, which is a movement therapy that includes deep breathing combined with gentle exercises and stretching.  Many people practice tai chi to alleviate the stress in their lives and studies indicate that it may reduce that pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. However, it is advisable to consult a good Tai Chi teacher who will offer correct guidance on the correct techniques of practicing this form of therapy.