Learning to Live with Arthritis
Charles Kassotis
In the United States alone, more than 40 million people suffer
from arthritis discomfort. Although many view this condition as
a natural part of the aging process, there is no reason why it
has to be debilitating. In fact, many doctors help their
patients learn to manage arthritis symptoms like pain and
stiffness by utilizing a variety of techniques. The first step
is to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Bone pain can
be a symptom of other medical problems, so it is important to
find out if arthritis is the true cause. If so, you can then
begin the quest for proper treatment.
Depending on the degree to which you have arthritis and its
impact on your lifestyle, you may need to take anti-inflammatory
medications that your doctor will prescribe. Always follow the
directions carefully and take the medication only as directed.
Let your doctor know if you experience side effects or allergic
reactions, which might include hives, itching, swelling, or
difficulty breathing. Over-the-counter medications likewise may
be prescribed so you can take them as needed for sporadic
discomfort if the pain has not become chronic or severe.
If you are only beginning to develop arthritis, or if it
presents only mild discomfort, you can try other things to help
make it more bearable, as well. For example, regular physical
exercise is a great way to build bone mass and to promote bodily
circulation, both of which can help to control arthritic
symptoms. Ask your doctor to recommend the best type of exercise
for your condition. People with joint swelling or pain might
need to avoid weight-bearing exercise like walking and instead
go swimming at the local pool, which helps their bodies to float
and thus relieves pressure from the joints and bones.
In addition to medication and exercise as ways of controlling
your arthritis pain, you may want to consider herbal remedies,
like glucosamine, among others. Some studies suggest that those
using certain herbal formulas that are based on glucosamine and
related substances may experience less joint pain and swelling.
Ask your doctor if this is a good idea for you. There are other
herbs that might reduce inflammation and ease joint pain, but
check with a medical expert or an herbalist before taking any of
these.
People who suffer from chronic conditions like arthritis often
benefit from environmental therapies as well. Listening to
soothing music or relaxing scents like potpourri can help to
relieve stress and reduce discomfort associated with joint pain.
Keeping a journal and writing about negative aspects of having
arthritis for 15 to 20 minutes at least three days a week has
been shown to improve immune function and decrease stress
levels. Joining a support group or visiting with friends and
family several times a month likewise provides comfort to ease
difficult physical symptoms.
Don’t let arthritis keep you down. Take control of your life
and your symptoms by trying strategies like these to build a
better future.
About the author:
Want to know more about managing arthritis discomfort? For
helpful information, visit The Arthritis Directory at
http://www.arthritisdir.com
