Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I have been diagnosed with RA in Jan 2014. My CRP level is high, 28mg/l. I have changed my diet to gluten free, and have been incorporating lifestyle and environmental changes to reduce inflammation and pain. I take a multi-vitamin as well as fish oil. I would like to continue this path, alternative ways to dealing with this disease. Frankly, the medications for RA have alarming side-effects, so I would like to try everything else first. My pain/joint-swelling is mostly in my ring and pinkie finger on one hand, and my other pinkie on my left hand, as well as severe pain on the top of my feet. My question is, I have seen some improvement with the changes I have made, and I would like to continue but at what point do you believe medication is a must? -
[|AI|]  Hi I have read your letter and came to conclusion that you do not want to start medication for Rheumatoid Arthritis at this stage. Though this is the normal reaction in patients diagnosed with chronic diseases, I would strongly advocate starting medicines at this stage prevent progression of the disease rather than starting late when the damage has already been done. This other methods may continue by the side to improve the quality of life.