Lifestyle Tips for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Lifestyle Tips for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Inflammation in joints of hands and feet is called rheumatoid arthritis. This disease is caused due to autoimmune disorder, where the body’s immune system attacks its own joints. The reasons behind the cause of rheumatoid arthritis are still unknown, and this condition cannot be cured with medications.

Symptoms
Some of the early signs of rheumatoid arthritis are

  • Morning Stiffness
    Stiffness in joints for a few minutes every morning is one of the common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Tiredness
    Lack of interest in performing regular activities due to frequent tiredness with swelling in joints is a sign of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Painful Joints
    Patients experience severe pain in joints due to swollen joints.
  • Lack of Motion
    Frequent movements are restricted due to swollen joints and the pain caused.
  • Numbness in Joints
    The swollen tendons can cause a burning sensation in joints along with the feeling of tingling and numbness.

Lifestyle Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Adapting to healthy lifestyle options is the best way to ease early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. Some of the lifestyle options are

  • Eating Healthy
    There are no proven studies that rheumatoid arthritis can be cured through a special diet. However, consuming fresh fruits and vegetables of different colors provide a ton of nutrients like antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Avoid processed food and carbonated drinks which consists of empty calories. Say no to alcohol as it may not react well with medicines taken to cure rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Stay Hydrated
    Keeping your body well-hydrated flushes away unwanted waste and bacterias. Avoid carbonated drinks and drink plenty of plain water as it is the best way to keep yourself hydrated. Drinking adequate water helps in lubricating joints and avoids early signs of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight
    Maintaining a healthy weight is important to stay away from rheumatoid arthritis. Obesity increases pressure on swollen joints making it difficult to move.
  • Exercise Regularly
    Early signs of rheumatoid arthritis can be eased with regular workout. However, exercise should be avoided while experiencing flares. Some of the common exercising techniques for rheumatoid arthritis are
  • Low-impact Aerobic Exercises
    Simple cardio exercises such as swimming, walking, and cycling help in maintaining a healthy heart and bones without harming the joints.
  • Lifting Light Weights
    Muscles can be strengthened using special resistance bands and by lifting light weights.
  • Stretching Muscles
    Stretching muscles improves elasticity in muscles and increases flexibility in joints. Stretches should be a part of your daily exercise routine, It should be done during warm-up and cooling sessions of the exercise.
  • Don’t Stress
    Though the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis cause severe discomfort, it can be handled well with less stress. Here are a few tips on lowering the stress levels.
  • Ask for Help
    Consult a doctor for better treatment methods to manage rheumatoid arthritis. Ask help from your loved ones in your daily chores to avoid pressure on joints.
  • Don’t Strain Your Body
    Listen to your body and take adequate rest between every activity. Self-care is an important part of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Practice Breathing Techniques
    Your body can be relaxed with simple deep breathing techniques done through yoga and meditation.
  • Interact with Support Groups
    Joining support groups to deal with rheumatoid arthritis is the best way to get moral support. You can also share ideas and tips with each other to ease the discomfort caused by this condition.

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