Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects the joints over time and can reduce quality of life if not properly managed.
In addition to adhering to treatment, patients need to avoid some common mistakes that can make the condition worse.
What mistakes are often made by people with rheumatoid arthritis?
Managing rheumatoid arthritis is not just about taking medication, but also involves lifestyle, psychology and daily habits.
Here are 6 common mistakes that people with arthritis are prone to:
1. Too much rest time
When the joints are painful and the body is tired, lying down and resting may seem reasonable. However, overdoing the rest time makes the joints stiffer, reduces mobility and increases pain. Exercising properly is an important part of managing RA.
Even during flare-ups, patients should still maintain gentle activities such as walking, yoga, tai chi or water aerobics. When feeling better, actively practice more muscle strengthening and cardiovascular exercises under the guidance of a specialist. Regular exercise will help improve joint flexibility, support inflammation control and improve morale.
2. Missing doctor’s appointments
Many patients often stop going to the doctor when they feel their condition is stable. This is a serious mistake. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that needs to be continuously monitored to promptly adjust the treatment regimen, detect complications early and prevent long-term damage.
Regular check-ups help doctors assess the condition of the joints, check for side effects of medications and perform necessary tests such as X-rays, blood tests… Patients need to maintain the recommended appointment schedule, even when feeling well.
3. Not finishing your prescribed medication
Some people stop taking their medication when their symptoms improve or stop taking a certain medication without consulting their doctor. This is dangerous. Each medication in your RA treatment regimen has a specific goal, such as relieving pain, reducing inflammation, or preventing joint damage.
If you experience side effects, the cost of treatment is too high, or you don’t understand the effects of your medication, talk to your doctor. They may adjust your dose, change your medication, or offer you a discount program that’s right for you. Never stop taking your medication without being told to.
4. Quitting Medication When You Feel Well
Feeling well doesn’t mean you’re cured. Stopping medication suddenly can cause your pain to return more severely and increase your risk of irreversible joint damage.
Some RA medications need to be kept in your bloodstream at regular intervals to be effective. If you frequently miss doses, the medication will lose its effectiveness and your condition may flare up again. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember (unless it is close to your next dose). Never double up to “make up for it”.
5. Ignoring your mental health
Rheumatoid arthritis affects not only your physical health but also your mental health. Chronic pain, constant fatigue and limited activities can lead to stress, anxiety and even depression.
If you often feel sad or lose interest in things you used to enjoy, seek support from your doctor or a mental health professional. Talk therapy, antidepressants or joining an RA support group can help. A healthy mental health is an essential part of managing RA effectively.
6. Exercising incorrectly or skipping it altogether
Exercising with the wrong technique, overdoing it or exercising without professional guidance can cause further damage to your joints. On the other hand, completely ignoring exercise increases the risk of muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and decreased flexibility.
People with RA should seek advice from a physical or occupational therapist for appropriate exercise. Gentle, correct exercise will help maintain joint strength and flexibility, while reducing pain and improving quality of life.
