When one says “arthritis,” one could be referring to any one of 500 related but individually distinct conditions that could afflict a similar number of joints. The most serious and common is rheumatoid arthritis or R.A. It usually develops later in life, and it can significantly impact a person’s lifestyle. To learn more about arthritis and better managing it, read on.
Buy accessories for your life and your home that make things easier. For example, you can purchase products that make it easier for you to open doors or take the lids off of jars. If you can increase the ease of your daily life, you’ll reduce pain and stress and improve your attitude.
If you have arthritis, try reducing your caffeine intake. Some people are extremely sensitive to arthritis. In those individuals, reducing the consumption of caffeine can have a positive effect on arthritis symptoms. Reduce the amount of caffeine you consume gradually to best gauge if your results will be positive ones.
Any woman suffering with arthritis should think twice before donning those high heels. Though they may appear attractive on the outside, these types of shoes can cause nerve and joint damage. The heels can aggravate arthritis symptoms as they increase the torque at the knee joints. Therefore, it is advised that you wear comfortable shoes to diminish arthritis pain. Your arthritic knees will respond gratefully.
Try to participate in aquatic activities if you suffer from arthritis. They help stretch muscles out and they are also quite soothing when the temperature of the water is fairly high. Joining a swim class is a good idea if you are not aware of how to do that.
Supplement your arthritis treatment with exercise. You can stay healthy and fit and increase your body’s flexibility. Taking part in a low impact workout can improve the flexibility of your joints and reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Make sure, however, that you don’t over do it. If you experience pain, stop.
Avoid taking prescription pain medication for your arthritis unless it is absolutely essential. Pain killers provide only temporary relief and you can quickly become seriously addicted to them. If you are prescribed pain killers, use them only as prescribed.
Get your vision checked regularly. People who suffer from arthritis are much more likely to have issues with their eyes as well. Make sure you take care of yourself by seeing an eye doctor at least yearly, in order to keep track of any developing issues that may occur with your condition.
Pay attention to what your body is telling you. Every arthritis sufferer is different, and only you know how your condition affects you. Analyze and even record the symptoms you are experiencing. If you tire easily, don’t try to work through it. Take a rest.
Don’t let stress rule your life. Stress can aggravate inflammation, making pain and swelling worse. Regardless of your situation, use stress-relief exercises to maintain a strong and healthy physical and mental outlook.
Make time for yourself. Setting aside at least thirty minutes a day to do something strictly for you should not make you feel guilty. Doing this can make you more productive and relaxed, which will in turn prevent flare ups and painful swelling. Learn to relax, and you will find yourself in better health.
Laugh a lot. You can decrease stress and improve your mood by doing such things as reading a book you enjoy, laughing with your family and friends, or watching a movie that makes you laugh. Laughter has a number of positive benefits for arthritis patients, so have yourself a good chuckle.
Be sure to get all the water you need. Grab the water bottle or fill your glass under the tap when thirsty, and feel great knowing water is the most healthful type of fluid you can provide for your body. Coffee and similar drinks will cause you to get dehydrated.
Watch for symptoms of depression when you are dealing with psoriatic arthritis. The fatigue you experience with psoriatic arthritis can mask the symptoms of depression. It is hard to feel like you will ever be normal again after the diagnosis. Make sure to see a doctor and deal with symptoms of depression.
Speak to your physician about using cold or heat treatments for your joints. Both ice packs and hot packs can offer relief for pain. Switching between the heat and ice can really work wonders, but it is not recommended to use this remedy in moderation.
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you may find yourself feeling guilty about being unable to perform the same simple tasks as you did before. Try doing tasks that you can manage, and don’t feel guilty.
Know your individual risks for arthritis and prevent damage however you can. If you are at a higher risk of arthritis, you want to take extra care to follow prevention tips and maintain a better fitness level for stronger joints and less risk overall. Even if arthritis runs in your family, there are things you can do to prevent joint damage and pain, and you should be doing these things to lessen your risk.
Snacking can help your body get nutrients for keeping active when arthritis wants to wear you down. Try staying with healthy things to eat such as seeds, fruits, nuts, or perhaps a protein bar. These choices will energize you without an overload of sugar or sodium.
Your body is like an engine, so it needs both oxygen and nutrients to keep on chugging along. Eating regularly will keep fuel moving to all the parts of your body which need it, from your muscles to your brain, and that will help to keep fatigue at bay. Eat at least 5 small meals a day and you’ll get your energy back!
Discussion about this post