Rheumatoid Arthritis – Which Rheumatology Treatment is Best?

07 Aug Rheumatoid Arthritis – Which Rheumatology Treatment is Best?

Tiresome family outings along with decreased exercise potential, lessened ability to stand on your feet for extended periods of time and getting in bed achy, is a medical red flag.  Noticeable signs of going from fantastic to just ok, in a brief time span, should alert you.  Shifts of feeling weak in your joints, slowing down (due to increased inflammation) and swelling – need to be addressed by a trained physician.

Our bodies are meant to function optimally and when we become symptomatic, the universe is attempting to gain our attention.

Life reacts to our lifestyle and if and when we choose not to take proper care of ourselves, it shows!

The above symptoms all related to an autoimmune disease known as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and currently, there is no known cure.

According to statistical research found here https://ra.xeljanz.com/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatments/about-rheumatoid-arthritis?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=unbranded&utm_content=condition_ra&src_code=XELW10027055

1.6 million Americans deal with the signs and symptoms of RA on a daily basis.  These stats are alarming, knowing our bodies are slowly becoming inflamed at a ferocious rate each day because we lack knowledge on what causes inflammation.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease where our immune system attacks its own tissues – mainly the synovium (thin membrane coating our joints).  Inflammation on a continuum, eventually becomes a disease, leading to some joint damage over time.

There are a few risks factors to watch for:

◻Increased risk if there is a family history

◻Typical onset over 40+ years

◻Individuals who smoke have a greater tendency to see symptoms arise

◻Obese people increase their risk of acquiring arthritis putting pressure on joints

What can we do About our Symptoms?

1. It is an absolute MUST to change our lifestyle, immediately.
2. If you smoke, of course, we recommend quitting right away.
3. Traditionally, docs will want to use steroids to quickly remedy inflammation and flare-ups. Alternative doctors will recommend supplementation and some spices and herbs to eliminate flare-ups.
4. Begin a regular exercise regimen to strengthen muscles and keep your body strong.
5. Non – Steroidal Anti – Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used regularly in the treatment of RA.
6. Disease-modifying anti-inflammatory drugs (DMARDs) are administered usually after diagnosis to slow the disease growth.
7. Home exercises will alleviate stiffness in joints (usually in the early morning and right before bed).
8. Increase Vitamin D and B12 Vitamins to give your body a burst of natural energy, daily

Maintain a positive attitude as RA could lead to depressive states and frustration – you may need a prescription for depression and or anxiety

Visit our website as we have internal medicine doctors that are available to assist you on your wellness journey.  Contact us today with any questions or to make an appointment https://pacificmedicalcare.net/blog/

What is an internal med doc?

They are highly trained and qualified to diagnose and treat adult diseases.  As apposed to family physicians who treat patients from birth to 100 years of age.

Pacific Medical Care is here to support your Rheumatology treatment, every step of the way!  Do not hesitate to reach out for help – that’s what we are here for.