Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Coping Mechanisms For Rheumatoid Arthritis

By Andrew John

If you or someone from your family suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and you need some help and advice, you're reading the right article. Rheumatoid arthritis as you probably already know all too well, is a potentially dangerous autoimmune disorder that is responsible for much more than just problems with joints, but may also affect the condition of heart and lungs. What is worse, rheumatoid arthritis always attack both sides of the body simultaneously. For example, inflammations always happen at both hands at the same time. If you add to this the sad truth that this form of arthritis is also extremely painful, it is clear that this disease will cause problems to all who suffer from it - in every area of their lives.

The bad thing is that rheumatoid arthritis is for now incurable. It doesn't mean however, that those who suffer from it can't do anything to improve the quality of their lives. First, there are some prescription-only medications that can reduce the visible symptoms and pain, making one's life much easier. Then, there are also some other ways to improve the quality of life. Sometimes even the smallest changes in one's lifestyle may make the difference.

One thing that most people forgot about is to do exercises. Everything that will keep your joints moving will slow down the disease and improve your ability to move. Generally, most cardiovascular exercises are ok. However, you should still ask your doctor about it, especially if your condition is not perfect or if your internal organs are already affected. He should be able to give you a list of most beneficial articles as well as a list of those that you shouldn't do.

Pain, especially at night, and sleeplessness that may accompany it, are two most dangerous direct effects of rheumatoid arthritis. If one does nothing about it, the pain will cause severe stress and lower the natural resistance of the body, making it more prone to other diseases, as well as increase the pace of arthritis progress. That's why it is imperative to get rid of the pain and ensure that one can sleep undisturbed. As arthritis persists, sleeping pills have to be taken under the strict control of the doctor and painkillers should be avoided whenever possible. Heat and cold will have also a strong calming effect on the joint's pain with no dangerous long-term side effects painkillers have.

The diet may also have a profound effect on rheumatoid arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to improve the condition of joints and seriously reduce the pain felt by those affected with rheumatoid arthritis. Omega-3 can be found in fish or in food supplements such as Omega Daily.

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