Arthritis is a very broad term that has over 500 different diagnosis and can affect hundreds of joints. The most common and serious of these is RA, or Rheumatoid Arthritis. This most often strikes people in their later years, and it can cause a huge change in their usual lifestyle. Keep reading to find out more about this condition.
Cut back on cigarettes or quit smoking all together. Cigarette smoke contains nicotine, which reduces blood flow to the extremities. This can produce short-term pain relief. However, the reduced blood flow can also damage your joints, meaning that your arthritis will be more severe, more quickly, than if you did not smoke.
Low impact exercises, such as cycling, swimming and walking, can ease arthritis discomfort in your joints. If you are unsure about exercising, before starting consult your doctor.
If you are suffering from RA, keep a diary of your daily activities. If you keep a journal it can help you understand what is in your life that will spark a flare up in arthritis. This way, you will also learn what actually helps your arthritis. Bring your journal with you to your doctor visit and let him read it. They might see patterns or clues to help with a treatment plan. A diary is a helpful tool.
Relax in a chair and do some deep breathing exercises. This provides a much-needed distraction from the pain and allows you to focus on more pleasant thoughts.
Don’t forget your joints. Even minor tasks can be harder to do for people with arthritis. Do not strain yourself by lifting. Pushing items across the floor is simpler. Also, never hesitate to ask for help. This can protect you from inflammation, pain and irritation.
It sounds unlikely, but relaxing music has some benefit in easing arthritis symptoms. Calm music relaxes the body and helps soothe your aches and pains. Many arthritis sufferers have difficulty sleeping; listening to music that relaxes you, can aid in getting a good night’s sleep.
Knowing your form of arthritis and the reason for its symptoms, will make treatment more targeted and more effective. The information which you have just read should go a long way in helping you find different methods of coping with arthritis and its effects. Give them a try and you will be surprised.
