Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints and causes immense pain, inflammation, stiffness, and mobility challenges. This type of arthritis can also cause deformities in other body parts, such as the hands, fingers, knees, feet, and toes. In severe cases, rheumatoid arthritis, if not appropriately managed, could lead to immobility. Let us look at the seven things to avoid to help alleviate the signs of RA:

Lack of physical activity
When you suffer from joint pains, tiredness, and mobility issues due to stiffness in the body, you must avoid resting for long hours. Daily exercise is the key to keeping yourself fit and healthy. Too much rest can worsen the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as fatigue, pain, and stiffness in joints. You can switch to low-impact exercises such as Tai Chi, yoga, or walking when symptoms become severe. Speak to your rheumatologist or therapist regarding exercises that best suit your condition. Walking for thirty minutes is ideal. Swimming too is a great choice.

Sugar and refined flour
Sugary snacks and soft drinks, bread made out of white flour, pasta, and white rice, among others, can spike your sugar levels which, in turn, could lead to the production of chemicals known as cytokines. This causes inflammation, which can aggravate the RA symptoms. Such foods can also increase the body mass index, further stressing the joints. Hence, avoiding these and opting for healthier alternatives such as whole-grain items like barley, oats, quinoa, and brown rice can be beneficial.

Packaged foods
Ready meals and foods that require minimum cooking are packed with ingredients that cause inflammation. These packaged foods are loaded with sugar, white flour, and unhealthy fats. They also contain artificial flavors, dyes, and preservatives which can trigger or worsen RA symptoms. It is suggested to read the nutrition facts on the label and the ingredient list on packaged food to make the right choice and prevent the onset of any RA triggers.

Fried foods
Reducing the intake of fried foods can help to decrease inflammation. Studies have revealed that fried foods are full of toxins known as advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which can enhance oxidation in the cells of the body. Opt for healthy baked snacks instead of fried foods.

Depression and negative thoughts
Rheumatoid arthritis is extremely painful and difficult to handle at times. You can get upset and might be prone to negative thoughts and slip into depression. The doctor can suggest a good counselor with whom you can discuss your thoughts and feelings. If required, your doctor will recommend antidepressants. Mental and physical exercises can also elevate your mood. You can also find out and join arthritis support groups in your area. Talking about your feelings and symptoms with others with the same condition will help you feel less isolated and depressed.

Working without a daily routine
Getting through the day can be difficult with any health condition and even more so with rheumatoid arthritis. Being organized and having a daily routine will help you save both time and energy. Plan your day around your priority list of activities. Don’t spend too much time struggling with an activity, as this can increase pain and fatigue.

Skipping recommended treatment options
In a condition like rheumatoid arthritis, there may be times of remission where you feel good and might want to skip the prescribed treatment options. However, if you do this, the condition might relapse with greater intensity. It is necessary for the compounds of the treatment options to remain in the bloodstream at the levels prescribed for them to be effective. If you miss your doses frequently, symptoms will flare-up.

Treatment options

Actemra®
Actemra® is a treatment option for mild to severe rheumatoid arthritis and a severe type of arthritis in children known as Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. It is recommended for those who have not responded favorably to other treatment options like disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD). Common side effects of it are sinus pain, urinary tract infection, and headache. However, it can also cause serious side effects such as bloody stools, jaundice, and dark urine. You will need to consult your doctor if you notice any unusual signs after taking this treatment option. It is intravenously administered once every four weeks.

Plaquenil
Plaquenil is used to treat or prevent malaria; however, it is also prescribed as a treatment for a few autoimmune diseases like RA and lupus. It can reduce pain and swelling. Vision issues such as light flashes, difficulty in focusing, and a headache, along with chest pain, are possible side effects. This treatment option can be taken orally and contains hydroxychloroquine as an active ingredient.

Rinvoq®
This option is used to treat moderate to severe cases of RA in which previously administered TNF (tumor necrosis factor) blockers did not give satisfactory results. Rinvoq® is a JAK inhibitor that works by blocking specific signals causing inflammation. This is a prescribed option, and its dosage will depend on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. Possible side effects are chest pain or pressure, weakness of one side of the body, and nausea.

Trexall
This is used as a treatment option for psoriasis, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate is the active ingredient, and in the treatment of arthritis, it falls in the category of DMARDs. Side effects caused by it can range from mild fever, fatigue, and dizziness, to severe infections and lung and kidney issues.

Although rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic and incurable disease, treatment at an early stage through various options and lifestyle changes can make the condition more manageable. Early treatment can also reduce the amount of damage caused to the joints and limit the impact of the disease. Consult your doctor at the earliest.