NSAIDs

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a cheap, over-the-counter method of treating the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, generally costing no more than $5 for a bottle of 100 tablets. A variety of these drugs are available, but all of them work roughly the same way. They inhibit the production of prostaglandins, a group of enzymes that play a significant role in inflammation of body tissue.
  NSAIDs include: aspirin, found in Bayer and other products; ibuprofen, the primary ingredient in Advil; and acetaminophen, as in Tylenol. In fact, most over-the-counter pain relievers fall into the NSAID category. These medications help bring down swelling and relieve the pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
  Choose a particular NSAID to try, and take it regularly for several weeks. If it doesn't help, or if you find yourself suffering from unpleasant side effects, try another type of medicine--there are enough types of NSAID out there that one of them should be effective for you.
  There is some research suggesting that long-term use of NSAIDs can lead to intestinal damage. Try not to take them regularly; instead, turn to pain relievers when the pain from your arthritis is particularly severe.
  
  

Heat and Cold

• Applying heat and cold is another inexpensive way to control the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Many sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis find that exposure to heat helps their muscles relax and eases the pain. A 15-minute hot shower or a soak in a bath is an easy way to apply some heat. Alternatively, apply an electric heating pad or hot pack, which can be found at your local pharmacy for around $20. Do not apply this kind of heat for more than 20 minutes at a time, though, and use it at its lowest heat setting.
  You may also consider a cold application to help ease the pain. Cold dulls nerves and can help ease muscle spasms. Apply an ice pack to the affected area, or for an even more cost-effective solution, simply apply a 99-cent bag of frozen peas. Or, you can soak the area in a cold-water bath for a few minutes.
  Another common approach is to alternate heat and cold. Fill a bucket with ice water and another with very warm water. Leave your pained hand or foot in the hot water for three to four minutes, then soak it in cold for the same amount of time. Repeat this cycle a few times, and see if the pain and swelling hasn't reduced.