Struggles to get to the clinic? Trying to reduce your exposure to COVID-19, as well as other contagious illnesses, and still need to see your doctor? Telehealth is safe and easy — receive quality care from anywhere.
If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, you know how painful and debilitating the condition can be. Fatigue, tender joints, and morning stiffness are all common symptoms of the disease, and although there is not a way to completely cure rheumatoid arthritis, there are certain steps and measures patients can take to help themselves feel better and more active.
Dr. Susan Baker is a Beverly Hills doctor who is Board-certified in rheumatology and internal medicine. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Baker, please contact us today by calling (310) 274-7770.
Despite the toll it places on their joints and minds, people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis can lead active and fulfilling lives. By following these three steps, patients with rheumatoid arthritis can maintain happy and healthy lifestyles, free from the pain and suffering so often associated with the disease.
Sitting around all day is one of the worst things you can do when suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, but many patients—because of joint pain, fatigue, and swelling—often find themselves staying in rather than being active, which actually makes these symptoms worse.
Range of motion exercises can help maintain joint movement and flexibility, especially during painful flare ups of the condition. When your rheumatoid arthritis is less active, you should concentrate on becoming more active yourself. Exercising, running, and jogging are all great ways to maintain your health while suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, as too much rest and inactivity can make symptoms worse.
Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation throughout the body, leading to patients who are more comfortable and free from pain. Fish, walnuts, and flaxseed products are all rich in omega-3.
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis should also avoid dairy products, which can contribute to arthritic pain. A specific protein in dairy products can irritate tissue around the joints, causing inflammation and sensitivity. Rather than going completely vegan, people with rheumatoid arthritis can ditch dairy in favor of spinach, beans, quinoa, and other vegetables rich in protein.
Maintain frequent appointments with a rheumatologist like Dr. Baker can help manage your symptoms, decrease the pain felt during flare-ups and allowing doctors to provide better and more accurate treatment for your symptoms. Even during the times when your rheumatoid arthritis is less active, seeing a rheumatologist can allow someone like Dr. Baker to monitor the disease and adjust treatment is necessary.
During these appointments, rheumatologists like Dr. Baker may prescribe additional medications to help you better deal with your symptoms, and they may access joint and tissue damage incurred by the disease. Even if you’re feeling fine, it’s highly important to maintain regularly scheduled appointments with your rheumatology doctor.
To learn more about rheumatoid arthritis, visit WebMD.com.
At her Beverly Hills office, Dr. Susan Baker treats patients with a variety of rheumatological disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis. Although exercise and a proper diet can help patients manage the symptoms of their disorder, nothing can replace the expertise and knowledge of a doctor specializing in internal medicine and rheumatology.
If you’re suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and are looking for ways to help manage your symptoms, please contact Dr. Baker today at (310) 274-7770.
Next, here are 6 common questions about arthritis
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