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When you have rheumatoid arthritis, there are a number of things you can do to help you lead a healthy life. Some of the ways you can take control of your condition include exercise, avoiding certain foods, taking anti-inflammatory drugs, and managing flares.
Exercise
Getting and staying active is essential if you have rheumatoid arthritis. It can help you to manage your pain and increase your mobility, but it’s important to know what kind of exercises to do.
A good exercise regimen can increase your strength, reduce your fatigue, and reduce your symptoms. Exercise is also a great way to improve your mental and emotional well-being.
If you’re not sure what kind of exercise to do, a physical therapist or occupational therapist can give you a good start. They can help you to get started and help you to stick with a program.
The best type of exercise for RA is a range of motion one. It can include gentle flowing movements that help you to get in touch with your body and boost your flexibility.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to human health. Humans have the ability to synthesize monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. However, humans lack delta desaturase enzymes, which are the molecules responsible for introducing a cis double bond into the n-3 position.
In healthy young men and women, ALA is converted to EPA and DHA. The ALA metabolic rate is approximately 9%, whereas the EPA and DHA rate is 21%. This relatively low conversion rate may suggest that these long-chain omega-3 PUFA are conditionally essential.
Long-chain omega-3 PUFA may also have neuroprotective properties, and they may reduce neuroinflammation. They may also be important for central nervous system function.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
If you’re struggling with arthritis diagnosis, your doctor may prescribe you nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medicines are used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and fever, and treat other minor aches and pains. However, they can also have side effects, and they can take a long time to work.
The most common NSAIDs are aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. They are available over the counter as well as in tablets and creams. Some people are allergic to these medications, and you should seek professional medical advice before using them.
NSAIDs can also interact with other medications. You should not use them if you have blood thinners or if you have kidney problems. In addition, they can lead to stomach ulcers.
Taking control of the disease
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes swelling and stiffness in the joints. It can cause damage to the joint cartilage and nearby bone. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you take control of rheumatoid arthritis and live a full life.
There are several drugs and therapies used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. They are designed to reduce inflammation, increase function, and prevent flare-ups. The best treatment depends on the individual, but a combination of medications may work better than one single drug.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed to treat rheumatoid disease. These include ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen.
Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are another common treatment option. DMARDs such as rituximab, etanercept, leflunomide, and sulfasalazine are often used to treat RA.
Managing flares
A flare in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a frustrating and painful experience. Although it can be debilitating, there are ways to prevent and manage RA flares.
Some common methods include taking over-the-counter medications and taking your medicine as directed. You may also want to avoid over-exerting yourself. Doing too much will make your pain worse. The right dose of medication can also help control a flare.
Another effective strategy is to take breaks when you are feeling fatigued. Take time to rest, relax, and eat a healthy, balanced diet. Taking a hot bath or using a heating pad can help soothe achy, stiff joints. Heat therapy can also improve blood flow and reduce swelling.
Depression and rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes joint damage, chronic inflammation, and physical disability. In addition to the physical symptoms, RA patients often suffer from depression. Depression may have an impact on RA patients’ quality of life and treatment outcomes.
The current study assessed the correlation between rheumatoid arthritis and depression. A sample of 118 RA patients were assessed for depression and autoimmune markers.
The incidence of depression was found to be higher among RA patients than in the general population. Those with higher disease activity also had more severe depression. RA patients with higher depression also had a greater number of painful joints.
