Living with rheumatoid arthritis will leave you feeling good on some days and not so great on others. Medications and treatments are used to help treat symptoms, but there are other things you can do to help manage the condition. Here are just a few things to do but only after consulting with your rheumatologist Catonsville.
Exercise Often
It can be uncomfortable to move around when you are feeling stiff or when experiencing joint pain but staying active can help with long-term symptoms and ease some of the severity of the condition. Stretching and low-impact aerobic workouts are good for your body and hurt without putting to much strain on your joints. Conduct strengthening exercises with resistance bands and use yoga to improve flexibility.
Eat Well
There are many studies talking about the impact of diet on the body, and regardless of what these studies say about rheumatoid arthritis, eating a well-balanced diet has a positive effect on your health. You can fight against inflammation and use omega-3s to reduce joint pain. Antioxidants fight against the work of free radicals in the body, so be sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Use whole grains in your diet and avoid sugars, cholesterols and saturated fats.
Lower Stress Levels
Your condition may bring about anxiety and stress, and left unmanaged, this can impact your ability to cope with the condition or work toward managing it. You can see a counselor or join a support group where others are battling the same challenged. Take care to rest throughout the day when you are feeling pain. Use breathing techniques to remain calm and help you relax.
Be Smart
You don’t have to change your lifestyle completely to live with rheumatoid arthritis, but you do need to know your limitations. Pace yourself and strategize how to get through your daily tasks without overexerting yourself or making things worse.