Living With Arthritis

Jun 9, 2016

Living With Arthritis

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Over time, and especially with age, people begin to feel pain and stiffness in their joints. Between the redness, pain, stiffness, and swelling, the symptoms of arthritis are a lot to handle. Arthritis develops around our joints, which is the place where two bones meet.

Over time, the wear and tear from age or joint trauma can cause the joints to become severely damaged. Arthritis can be severely painful, but there are many things that one can do to treat and manage symptoms. It is best to detect arthritis early on in order to formulate the most effective plan of treatment.

Experiencing Symptoms of Arthritis?

Feeling pain is the body’s way of saying that something is wrong. Most types of arthritis cause pain in and around the joints, which can result in difficulty completing everyday tasks or even moving around. In addition to joint pain, here are more signs and symptoms of arthritis:

  • There is fever present
  • A recent weight loss
  • Difficulty breathing
  • A rash appears
  • The area feels itchy
  • Feelings of fatigue

Living with Arthritis

First and foremost, go see a specialist. They will diagnose and assess symptoms, ultimately developing a plan that will best suit personal needs. It is important to understand the type of arthritis in the body, in addition to understanding the proper way to take arthritis medication.

Take Arthritis Medications

Pay careful attention to the directions for your arthritis medications. Some things that you should take note of:

  • Some medication should be taken with milk
  • Others should be taken with food
  • Take in the morning or before bed
  • For creams: apply on irritated areas
  • Discontinue creams if rash or irritation occurs

Alternative Treatment Options

  • Taking a warm bath or shower
  • Alternating ice and heat on affected areas
  • Doing gentle stretches
  • Resting the joint

If a combination of stretching, taking medication or receiving physical therapy do not help symptoms, return to a doctor. There may be a different medication that will react better with present symptoms and bring better results. Since arthritis is something that will not go away, it is important to formulate a regular routine of managing symptoms, hindering pain, and keeping up-to-date with specialists.

Other Consideration for Those Living with Arthritis

  • Try to stay a healthy weight: Arthritis already causes unnecessary pain on the bones and joints, so make sure to keep the extra weight off to avoid any excess pain and pressure.
  • Exercise frequently: Moving joints around will help, and there are plenty of enjoyable physical activities that don’t require excessive amounts of strength or cardio. Try water aerobics, yoga, or riding a bike.
  • Take medications as directed: Medications are designed to be taken a certain way, so if there is something hindering the desired results, perhaps re-visit the directions.
  • See the doctor regularly: Symptoms should be monitored and discussed frequently to ensure that the best treatment is being provided. As symptoms change, worsen, or improve, a change in exercise and medications is likely to improve as well.
Living With Arthritis
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