RHEUMATOID SYMPTOMS

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a disease that can cause inflammation of the joints and other areas of the body. Some of the common symptom of RA is fatigue, loss of appetite but the most limiting symptom is chronic pain in the joints. Scientifically, there is no cure for RA but however Strategies to Help Relieve Chronic RA Pain. They include:

• Take your tablets on time. Don’t wait until you are in more pain and have to play catch-up.

• Regular exercise is a great way to fight fatigue, strengthen muscles, and increase joint range of motion. Gentle stretching, walking, swimming, and water aerobics are usually good low-impact choice. One study suggests that tai chi may improve function in those with RA.

• Take your pain tablets on a schedule. Don’t wait until you are in more pain and have to play “catch-up.”

• Include omega-3 fatty acid foods in your diet. It contains properties that help fight inflammation and that could ultimately help you find relief. You can find them in fish oil supplements, plant oil.

• Topical creams, gels, and lotions can be rubbed directly onto the skin to help ease painful joints. As the skin absorbs the ingredients, you may experience temporary relief of minor joint pain.

• Maintaining a healthy weight may help you better manage pain. Have a balanced diet & exercise regularly to keep your weight at the right level.

• Use a warm, moist compress to loosen up a stiff joint. Try an ice pack on an inflamed joint. A rub may also help. These tried-and-true treatments are easy and can provide some quick relief for mild symptoms.

• Focus on things you enjoy. Take rest and find ways to manage stress.

• Acupuncture helps to reduce chronic pain and it is proven to be helpful to some patients. Acupuncture use of fine needles gently placed near nerve endings.

Some common complementary and alternative treatments that have shown promise for rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Fish oil. Some preliminary studies have found that fish oil supplements may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain and stiffness. Side effects can include nausea, belching and a fishy taste in the mouth. Fish oil can interfere withtreatments, so check with your physician first.

• Plant oils. The seeds of evening primrose, borage and black currant contain a type of fatty acid that may help with rheumatoid arthritis pain and morning stiffness. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and gas. Some plant oils can cause liver damage or interfere with treatments, so check with your physician first.

• Tai chi. This movement therapy involves gentle exercises and stretches combined with deep breathing. Many people use tai chi to relieve stress in their lives. Small studies have found that tai chi may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain. When led by a knowledgeable instructor, tai chi is safe. But don’t do any moves that cause pain.

Surgery for rheumatoid arthritis

Surgery is occasionally needed for rheumatoid arthritis. Operations vary from quite minor ones such as the release of a nerve or a tendon to major surgery such as joint replacement. Hip, knee, shoulder and elbow replacements are highly successful operations. If you’re having difficulty with day-to-day activities an occupational therapist can suggest ways that you could do them without putting too much strain on your joints. They can also give you information on splints if you need supports for your hands and wrists.

What Are Tips for Managing and Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The following tips are helpful in managing and living with RA:

• Live a healthy lifestyle: Eat healthy foods. Avoid sugar and junk food. Quit smoking, or don’t start. Don’t drink liquor in excess. These common-sense measures have an enormous impact on general health and help the body function at its best.

• Exercise: Discuss the right kind of exercise for you with your physician , if necessary.

• Rest when needed, and get a good night’s sleep. The immune system functions better with adequate sleep. Pain and mood improve with adequate rest.

• Follow your physician’s instructions about treatments to maximize effectiveness and minimize side effects.

• Communicate with your physician about your questions and concerns. They have experience with many issues that are related to rheumatoid arthritis.

Who Treats Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Diagnosing and treating rheumatoid arthritis requires a team effort involving the patient and several types of health care professionals.

The primary physician to treat arthritis may be an internist, a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of adults, or a rheumatologist, a physician who specializes in arthritis and other diseases of the bones, joints, and muscles.

As treatment progresses, other professionals often help. These may include the following:

• Orthopaedists: Surgeons who specialize in the treatment of, and surgery for, bone and joint diseases.

• Physical therapists: Health professionals who work with patients to improve joint function.

• Occupational therapists: Health professionals who teach ways to protect joints, minimize pain, perform activities of daily living, and conserve energy.

• Dietitians: Health professionals who teach ways to use a good diet to improve health and maintain a healthy weight.

• Nurse educators: Nurses who specialize in helping patients understand their overall condition and implement their treatment plans.

• Psychologists: Health professionals who seek to help patients cope with difficulties in the home and workplace that may result from their clinical conditions.

If you are experiencing severe pain, make time to consult a physician before it worsens. Ask your rheumatologist about pain relief options like exercise, a rub, yoga, and acupuncture, but remember that the first priority on your pain relief list should be to get RA inflammation under control.