Live With Rheumatoid Arthritis
In the past, a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis meant increasing pain, joint deformity and eventual confinement to a wheelchair. This was devastating news for any patient, particularly young ones. Today, however, great advances in the treatment and understanding of rheumatoid arthritis means that patients of all ages can continue to enjoy mobility and independence indefinitely. It is possible to learn to live quite well with rheumatoid arthritis.
Instructions
Learn to Live a Full Life With Rheumatoid Arthritis
1. Get on the right regimen of medication. Every arthritis patient is different, so what works for you may not work for someone else. Once you are on one or more medications that work, stick with them and make sure you take them as indicated.
2. Ask for help when you need it. While you will likely be able to continue most of your normal activities once you are on a good medication, there may still be certain things you have trouble with. Get assistance and your life will be much easier.
3. Keep exercising. Regular physical activity is key to keeping you mobile. When you move your joints, you are keeping them strong and flexible. This translates into easier mobility for you in your daily activities.
4. Invest in assistive devices when necessary. Not every difficult chore requires delegation to someone else. Sometimes, you just need a little boost to get a task done. Fortunately, there are plenty of devices designed to help you out. From jar openers to shoe horns, you won't have to look far to find what you need.
5. Join a support group. The Arthritis Foundation can direct you to groups in your area (see Resources below). Being able to meet and talk with others who are going through similar struggles can be very therapeutic and you may even pick up some helpful hints on dealing with your condition.
6. Get a handicapped-parking permit. Your doctor can provide you with the necessary paperwork. While you may not need to use it all the time, being able to park near a building on the days when you are having an arthritis flare up can be a real benefit to you.
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