Rheumatoid Arthritis and Early Treatment
When diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, many patients instinctively prepare for a life filled with pain. Yes, this may be true in some cases. But, a growing number of rheumatologists now believe that this form of arthritis can literally be stopped in its tracks. According to the popular Arthritis Today magazine, this is a growing theory. So, what does it mean for you?
If you suspect you are suffering from arthritis, it is important to seek immediate medical care. Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, sleep troubles, and decreased mobility. Treatment options do vary, but a proper diagnosis is key. There are over one hundred different types of arthritis. Although the treatments are similar, a diagnosis is important. Start with your primary care physician. He or she may later suggest you visit an arthritis specialist, also commonly known as a rheumatologist.
Treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis typically include over-the-counter pain medication. This is to lessen the severity of the pain. Unfortunately, this relief is short-lived. That is why many prescribe medication. When taken over time, these medications work to combat arthritis. As for the importance of early treatment, the Arthritis Today magazine highlighted a study performed on the drug Humira. It showed that those diagnosed early were more likely to enter into remission in as little as two years!
In addition to exercise, healthy eating is important
As for why early treatment is important, it slows the progression of the disease. Juveniles are the only individuals likely to outgrow rheumatoid arthritis. For adults, the disease will only progress and get worse, especially without treatment. The health complications are far too great to not give the treatment a chance. These health complications may include disability, severe limitations in mobility, and deformities.
Although a growing number of arthritis experts do agree that early treatment can stop or slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis, may have cause for concern. For example, an average window of opportunity is two years. Many believe that once those two years have passed patients will mistakenly believe they are past the point of no return and that treatment is useless. It is not. Treatment will reduce or temporarily eliminate many of the symptoms of arthritis. So, many will push for treatment regardless.
While there is little scientific proof that early treatment can stop rheumatoid arthritis in its tracks, it is worth the chance. As previously stated, all patients should undergo treatment. Whether that treatment comprises of over-the-counter products, prescribed medications, herbal supplements, or exercise, treatment can reduce the symptoms of arthritis. If you are able to stop the disease in its tracks, just consider that the icing on the cake.
How to Prevent and Manage Arthritis Pain
If you suffer from arthritis, pain becomes a part of your life. Even those who have dealt with arthritis for years, still suffer. With arthritis, the pain is more than physical. It is emotional too. Help must be sought.
If you suffer from arthritis, you want pain relief. In fact, you may want it now. Yes, it is important to seek pain relief, but first, look at the cause. When seeking relief, you want more than temporary relief. The best approach is to stop pain before it starts. How? Luckily, you have many options.
Exercise. Exercise is vital to create a strong and healthy body. Not only that, it can relieve and prevent the pain associated with arthritis. Those suffering from severe pain, often left their symptoms to go untreated. Their joints are so stiff that it literally hurts to move. If you have reached this point, it will take time. If not, start the process now. Exercise results in joint movement, lessening the stiffness and the pain over time. It also builds muscle strength. This strength provides the joints with protection, lessening the pressure and pain.
The wise use of joints. Those who suffer from severe forms of arthritis suffer every minute of the day. They wake up and feel pain. In fact, a full night’s sleep may be near impossible. Prevent joint pain by wisely using your joints and muscles. Do you suffer from arthritis in your elbows or hips? If so, lessen the strenuous activity that requires these joints. Instead of lifting heavy boxes with your arms, lift with the entire body. Instead of turning only the upper part of the body at the hips, reposition the entire body to get a good look.
Sleep. As previously stated, sleep can be difficult for those suffering from severe pain. A good night’s sleep is vital to preventing pain. The energy the body receives from sleep can ward off pain or lessen its severity. If your nights are restless, sleep whenever possible. This may involve afternoon naps, but the payoff is worth it. A well-rested and well-energized body is able to ward off pain and manage it better.
Do not load up on pain medication. Unfortunately, those who suffer from pain, whether it is arthritis or not, rely on pain relievers. Some reach the point where they take medication before the pain even sets it. It will arrive eventually, so why wait. Do not take this approach, unless advised by a medical professional. The body grows dependant on the medication we ingest. It is easy to become addicted to over-the-counter pain medication. To prevent pain, exercise, eat healthily and get a good night sleep. Wait until the pain arrives before turning to over-the-counter medication.
Speaking of when the pain arrives, you now know how to prevent arthritis pain, but what if you still feel it? The above-mentioned steps prevent some from experiencing severe pain, but there are no guarantees. Our bodies are all different. If your attempts prove unsuccessful, the next step is management. You need to learn to manage your pain. Pain management will allow you to function from day-to-day.
Reduce stress and relax. There is no doubt that arthritis sufferers deal with pain. This is a proven fact. However, our bodies play a huge role in the impact it has on our lives. A positive outlook on life will help. The less you focus on your pain, the less you will feel. Relaxation is key too. Does a warm bath relax your body and soothe your joint pain? If so, fill up the bathtub, add scented bubbles, and turn on your favorite music.
Get a massage. Most patients are surprised to hear their physicians recommend massages. Most assume they will be loaded with pain relievers and sent homes. Yes, over-the-counter relievers do assist with pain, but so does a good old massage. It relaxes the body and mind. Massages also warm the body and promote movement. In some cases, regular massages can help to prevent pain.
As you can see, there are many ways to avoid and manage the pain associated with arthritis. In fact, these are just a few of your options. No matter what type of arthritis you suffer from or how severe the symptoms, know you are not alone and that relief is available.
What foods are inflammatory for arthritis?
The 10 Best Foods to Eat If You Have Arthritis – Healthline …https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-foods-for-arthritis
…https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-foods-for-arthritis
This article will look at 10 of the best foods to eat if you have arthritis. Fatty Fish. Fatty fish varieties such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects. … Garlic. … Ginger. … Broccoli. … Walnuts. … Berries. … Spinach. … Grapes.More items…•Oct 4, 2017, The 10 Best Foods to Eat If You Have Arthritis – Healthline…https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-foods-for-arthritisSearch for What foods are inflammatory for arthritis?
What are the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): 12 early signs – Medical News Today…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319810.php
….https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319810.php
The early warning signs of RA include Fatigue. Before experiencing any other symptoms, a person with RA may feel extremely tired and lack energy. … Slight fever. Inflammation associated with RA may cause people to feel unwell and feverish. … Weight loss. … Stiffness. … Joint tenderness. … Joint pain. … Joint swelling. … Joint redness.More items…•Oct 25, 2017, Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): 12 early signs – Medical News Today…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319810.phpSearch for: What are the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
Which is worse lupus or rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus: How They’re Different and The Same…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-lupus-difference
…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-lupus-difference
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and lupus are autoimmune diseases. They result from your immune system mistakenly attacking your own body. … Both conditions are much more common in women, who are 2-3 times more likely than men to have RA. And women also are up to 9 times more likely to get lupus. Jun 2, 2017Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus: How They’re Different and The Same…https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-lupus-differenceSearch for: Which is worse lupus or rheumatoid arthritis?
Which is worse rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis vs. osteoarthritis: What’s the difference?…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323617.php
…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323617.php
Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis both cause joint pain and stiffness. They are both forms of arthritis but have different causes and treatments. … OA is more common than RA. Both OA and RA involve inflammation in the joints, but the inflammation in RA is much greater. Nov 8, 2018Rheumatoid arthritis vs. osteoarthritis: What’s the difference?…https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323617.phpSearch for: Which is worse rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis?
Is coffee bad for arthritis?
No Bones About It: Drinking Coffee May Increase Arthritis Risk…https://www.webmd.com/…/no-bones-about-drinking-coffee-may-increase-arthritis-risk
…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/news/20000725/no-bones-about-drinking-coffee-may-increase-arthritis-risk
No Bones About It: Drinking Coffee May Increase Arthritis Risk. … Rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation of the lining of the joints in the body and can lead to deformity and disability. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the joints, although it is not known why. There is also no cure. Jul 25, 2000No Bones About It: Drinking Coffee May Increase Arthritis Risk…https://www.webmd.com/…/no-bones-about-drinking-coffee-may-increase-arthritis-riskSearch for: Is coffee bad for arthritis?
What is the most effective painkiller for arthritis?
Understanding Arthritis Painkillers – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/features/understanding-arthritis-painkillers
…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/features/understanding-arthritis-painkillers
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs called NSAIDs help relieve joint swelling, stiffness, and pain — and are among the most commonly used painkillers for people with any type of arthritis. You may know them by the names such as ibuprofen, naproxen, Motrin, or Advil. May 18, 2007, Understanding Arthritis Painkillers – WebMD…https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/features/understanding-arthritis-painkillersSearch for: What is the most effective painkiller for arthritis?
How do you stop arthritis from progressing?
10 Things You Need to Stop Doing If You Have Arthritis…https://www.verywellhealth.com/things-stop-doing-arthritis-190407
…https://www.verywellhealth.com/things-stop-doing-arthritis-190407
Here are ten ways to do that. Stop Thinking You Can’t Exercise. … Stop Giving in to a Sedentary Lifestyle. … Stop Eating an Unhealthy Diet That Packs on Pounds. … Stop Ignoring Your Physical Limitations. … Stop Avoiding Mobility Aids Because Your Pride Gets in the Way. … Stop Thinking That Your Arthritis Is Going Away. More items…10 Things You Need to Stop Doing If You Have Arthritis…https://www.verywellhealth.com/things-stop-doing-arthritis-190407 Search for: How do you stop arthritis from progressing?
What diseases can mimic rheumatoid arthritis?
Are My Painful Joints Caused By Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or …https://www.arthritis-health.com/…/are-my-painful-joints-caused-rheumatoid-arthritis-ra-…
…https://www.arthritis-health.com/types/rheumatoid/are-my-painful-joints-caused-rheumatoid-arthritis-ra-or-something-else
Many conditions mimic the hallmark joint pain of rheumatoid arthritis…Are My Painful Joints Caused By Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or Something Else? Fibromyalgia.Osteoarthritis.Spondyloarthropathies, such as ankylosing spondylitis.Crystal arthritis, such as gout.Autoimmune conditions, such as lupus.Infectious arthritis. Are My Painful Joints Caused By Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or …https://www.arthritis-health.com/…/are-my-painful-joints-caused-rheumatoid-arthritis-ra-…Search for: What diseases can mimic rheumatoid arthritis?
What are the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
9 Early Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis – Healthline…https://www.healthline.com/health/early-signs-rheumatoid-arthritis
…https://www.healthline.com/health/early-signs-rheumatoid-arthritis
Other early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis general weakness or a feeling of malaise.dry mouth.dry, itchy, or inflamed eyes.eye discharge.difficulty sleeping.chest pain when you breathe (pleurisy)hard bumps of tissue under the skin on your arms.loss of appetite.More items…•Sep 27, 20189 Early Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis – Healthline…https://www.healthline.com/health/early-signs-rheumatoid-arthritisSearch for: What are the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
How does a doctor diagnose rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/…/drc-20353653
…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353653
Rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages because the early signs and symptoms mimic those of many other diseases. There is no one blood test or physical finding to confirm the diagnosis. During the physical exam, your doctor will check your joints for swelling, redness, and warmth. Mar 1, 2019, Rheumatoid arthritis – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic…https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/…/drc-20353653Search for: How does a doctor diagnose rheumatoid arthritis?
What’s the difference between arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Differences Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis…https://www.pharmacytimes.com/…/differences-between-osteoarthritis-and-rheumatoid-a…
…https://www.pharmacytimes.com/contributor/shivam-patel-pharmd-candidate/2016/06/differences-between-osteoarthritis-and-rheumatoid-arthritis
Differences Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. … There are many similarities between OA and RA, including joint pain and inflammation. However, OA is defined as joint stiffness caused by loss of cartilage between joints due to wear and tear,1 while RA stems from an autoimmune attack on joints. Jun 16, 2016Differences Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis…https://www.pharmacytimes.com/…/differences-between-osteoarthritis-and-rheumatoid-a…Search for: What’s the difference between arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
What is the safest drug to treat rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Options | Johns Hopkins Arthritis …https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-treatment/
…https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-treatment/
Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®) is an effective DMARD for the treatment of RA. Its effectiveness overall is somewhat less than that methotrexate, but it has been shown to reduce signs and symptoms and slow radiographic damage. Jan 31, 2019, Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Options | Johns Hopkins Arthritis …https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/rheumatoid-arthritis/ra-treatment/Search for: What is the safest drug to treat rheumatoid arthritis?
Learn more about arthritis at https://www.arthritis.org/ New update and news for 2019 @ https://www.arthritis.org/about-us/news-and-updates/
