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Improving Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease where white
blood cells suddenly attack healthy tissues, specifically
joints and cartilage. There are a few ways to
help ease the symptoms, depending on which stage
of the disease you are in. If you are in the early
stages of rheumatoid arthritis there is a new
disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD)
which has done an excellent job in controlling
symptoms. It works best in the initial stages,
so if you suspect you may have rheumatoid arthritis,
see your doctor as soon as possible.There are
other options if you are in later stages of rheumatoid
arthritis. These are also helpful if you are still
in early stages. One is to use anti-inflammatory
drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
This does a great job reducing pain and inflammation.
However, these have side effects including heart
problems and gastrointestinal bleeding. You can
also use acetaminophen for your rheumatoid arthritis,
which does not have these side effects.When symptoms
are mild, moderate exercising including stretching,
weight lifting, and aerobics ease rheumatoid arthritis
symptoms. Be sure to rest when your joints flare
up as this would just add strain to your aching
joints. Stretching is important because it increases
flexibility and is easy enough to do at any age.
When stretching, stop when you feel mild discomfort
and hold for 10 to 30 seconds. Then repeat 3 to
5 times. Weight lifting also improves flexibility
as well as strength and balance. Barbells are
easy, convenient, and inexpensive. Remember to
stretch before lifting any weights. Start with
3 sets of 8 to 10 repetitions. If you would like
you can start with no weights at all (such as
going leg lifts for rheumatoid arthritis in the
knees), then add weights when you can. Lift the
weights slowly and evenly to not damage the cartilage.
Some other popular forms of exercise for rheumatoid
arthritis are aqua therapy and Tai Chi. Be sure
to find an actual therapist as they have specific
exercises they do for arthritis patients. Aerobics
instructors may push to far and do further damage.
Tai Chi has no long term studies proving its effectiveness,
but due to testimonials from patients who have
taken Tai Chi, the Arthritis Foundation began
offering the class. Remember to always check with
your doctor before starting an exercise program.Some
other ways to relieve rheumatoid arthritis pain
are to lose weight to take additional pressure
off joints, eating a healthy diet, getting enough
sleep, using heat or ice, and possibly using devices
such as a cane, brace, or splint.
There are many resources for additional information
on rheumatoid arthritis including websites, flyers,
periodicals, books, etc. Your doctor should be
able to provide you with some reference on where
to look for additional help.DISCLAIMER: This information
is not presented by a medical practitioner and
is for educational and informational purposes
only. The content is not intended to be a substitute
for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or
treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician
or other qualified health care provider with any
questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Never disregard professional medical advice or
delay in seeking it because of something you have
read.
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