Having rheumatoid Arthritis means that you will have both good days and bad. On the bad days you might have chronic pain and so much stiffness that getting out of bed may seem like a daunting task.
On days when the fatigue and pain can be overwhelming, you should have a pain management plan that can help you deal with RA effectively or visit a rheumatologist. Here are a few tips that can help you deal with bad days:
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1- Pain tool kit:
Talk to your doctor, and get prescription pain meds that work best for your condition. Apart from pain medication, add heating pads and cold packs to your kit, in addition to massage oils and topical pain creams. Infrared heat therapies, and a hot bath or steam shower can also help dissipate inflammation and pain.
2- Exercise:
Research has shown that exercise can help you deal better with chronic pain. Choose an exercise or activity that works for you and try that on your bad days. It can be swimming, or only walking, but moving about can also help distract your brain from the pain, release endorphins and get rid of that stiffness. Getting around can also make you feel better, so the next time you are down with RA, take a walk.
Yoga can also help you deal better with chronic pains of RA. Yoga increases self-awareness and enhances mobility and flexibility. This is likely to decrease inflammation and decrease pain. Doing yoga with a group of friends is also going to make you feel less isolated, and if you are feeling really down, then it will take you out of your head.
3- Assistive devices:
In this day and age of technology, find devices that can help make your work easier. Tools like a desk chair with support or an ergonomic keyboard can make all the difference in the world for people with RA. It can make everyday tasks easier and not aggravate an already bad condition. Electric cans and bottle openers can also be a great addition to your kitchen appliances.
4- Seek friends support:
Nothing is better than a friend you can vent too. Find support in your family and friends on your bad days. You can also talk to RA support-groups online and otherwise, and seek help from fellow sufferers. Learn about how other people deal with their condition—you can get practical tips.
5- Keep a positive attitude:
Gratitude is the key to having a positive attitude, and a positive attitude can help you deal with chronic pain better. Remind yourself that your condition could be worse than it is, it will make you thankful and less negative.
A positive attitude will also keep depression at bay and enhance your sense of well-being. It will also help distract your brain from the pain, and over time this technique can make you feel better.
If you are experiencing worsening of your disease, or need a regular check-up, then book an appointment with top rheumatologist in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.
