With RA, How Can I Make Sure Keep Feeling Good?

1. Take your medication as prescribed. Medication can help manage symptoms of RA, including inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Not having adequate control of your symptoms will contribute to feeling worse or having a flare up.

2. Exercise regularly. Exercise can strengthen muscles and joints and improve joint mobility. It can also help reduce stress, which can worsen RA symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to get started with exercise and what type of exercises are right for you.

3. Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce inflammation. Some foods can also trigger RA symptoms, so it is important to identify and avoid them.

4. Get enough sleep. When you are sleep-deprived, your body produces more inflammation, which can worsen RA symptoms. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

5. Manage stress. Stress can trigger RA symptoms. Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress.

6. Quit smoking. Smoking can worsen RA symptoms. If you smoke, quit as soon as possible.

7. Regular check-ups with your doctor. Your doctor can monitor your condition and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.