Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition that mainly affects the joints, but can also affect other organs. Managing its symptoms often requires long-term treatment, which must be constantly adjusted and which is very important to be followed exactly.[1] In addition to following the treatment prescribed by your doctor, there are other things you can do when you have rheumatoid arthritis to keep your symptoms under control. What are some of these you will discover in the lines below.
1. Visit your rheumatologist regularly
Regular visits to the rheumatologist are essential to monitor the progress of the disease and adjust the treatment accordingly. The rheumatologist will routinely monitor the signs and symptoms of the disease as well as the patient’s response to treatment. He or she may also recommend various solutions to manage symptoms and improve joint function.[2]
So don’t neglect the importance that one can have rheumatological consultation performed periodically in the management of rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Exercise
Physical activity plays a crucial role in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Movement helps us relieve joint pain and stiffness while helping to improve mobility. In addition to helping to relieve the symptoms of this condition, exercising properly can help prevent long-term problems.
Just make sure you talk to a specialist before starting an exercise program.[2]
3. Quit smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor in the development and progression of rheumatoid arthritis. It can make symptoms worse, reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs used to manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, and decrease your chances of going into remission. This is in addition to the fact that it is also responsible for increasing the risk of developing other health problems associated with rheumatoid arthritis, especially cardiovascular disease.[1]
If you smoke, quit! It is an important step towards a healthier life and better symptom management.
4. Try to maintain a healthy weight
Maintaining a healthy weight can have a significant effect in managing rheumatoid arthritis. Fat cells in our body release cytokines, which are molecules that can cause inflammation. If you have more fat cells, your body will release more cytokines, which can lead to more inflammation and worse rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Extra pounds can also affect the effectiveness of certain medications used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, they can also put extra pressure on the joints, which can increase pain and discomfort.
A healthy, balanced diet combined with regular physical activity can help you shed extra pounds and reach a healthy weight. If you are struggling, there are various specialists who can help you reach your goal in a healthy way.[2]
5. Identify solutions and strategies to reduce stress levels
Stress can play an important role in triggering or worsening the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. That’s why it’s essential to find effective ways to manage it.
It can be a walk in nature, yoga, meditation, breathing exercises or other relaxation techniques. Identify activities that relax you and try to do them regularly. Just remember that each person is unique and what works for some may not work for others. The important thing is to keep an open mind and try different approaches until you find the one that works best for you.[2]
Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that can affect not only the joints, but also other parts of the body, the management of which involves following a chronic treatment, which will have to be permanently adjusted and whose compliance is mandatory to obtain remission. Also, things like regular rheumatology checkups, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and the other measures mentioned in this article can also help manage this condition and keep its symptoms under control.
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2023-12-29 07:47:18
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