|
 |
|
 |
|
TWENTY-SEVEN YEARS AGO, Richard
Shirley woke up with a swollen knee. This was the beginning of his
journey that would lead to a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
"I did all I could to fight the disease," he said. While Richard's
regimen included stretching, swimming, and use of multiple medicines,
there are a number of things that patients with RA can do to improve
their daily lives.
WAKING UP TO A CHRONIC CONDITION
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition that can cause pain and loss of joint motion.
The course of RA varies widely. Early diagnosis and
treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are crucial for limiting joint
damage. All people who suspect they have RA should see a rheumatologist
to receive an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
THE STRAIN OF ORDINARY ACTIVITIES
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may have a wide range of physical symptoms, including
joints that are tender, swollen, or stiff. They also may feel tired and
have occasional fevers as well as a general sense of not feeling well.
These physical symptoms can make daily activities, such as working,
enjoying hobbies, or exercising, difficult. In fact, studies have shown
that people with any form of arthritis are less likely to be physically
active than those without this condition.
THE IMPACT ON FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Although rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can occur at any age, it most commonly occurs among women
and adults between the ages of 20 and 45. These statistics suggest that
the impact on families with children is widespread. When RA causes an
individual to become less active, family members and friends can be
affected by RA. For
example, when parents with RA have joint pain or
are feeling tired, they may be less able to participate in family
activities, such as helping children with homework or completing
simple tasks around the house.
One patient, who was interviewed for this article, said "my husband
reacted by burying himself in his work, and my kids completely ignored
it". She was troubled by their reaction, but at the same time she
understood, since they didn't realize how serious the disease could be.
They have since become more supportive and play an active role in her
treatment. |
 |
|
If you or someone you are close to has rheumatoid arthritis (RA), consider talking
to a doctor or another health care provider about emotional
or interpersonal problems caused by RA. These professionals
also can recommend support groups or other programs, such as
those offered by the Arthritis Foundation, to help people with RA.
Studies have shown that patients who understand their condition
and participate actively in their own treatment report less pain
and make fewer visits to their doctors. In addition, learning
about RA is the best way for people with this condition to remain
active, cope with the challenges of the disease, and build
confidence in their ability to lead active and productive lives.
Here is an example of the type of programs available
through the Arthritis Foundation:
Arthritis Self-Help Course
This course is designed to help you learn and practice the
different skills needed to build your own individualized
self-management program, and manage your arthritis on a
day-to-day basis.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
 |
"THE EMOTIONAL CONSEQUENCES"
|
|
|
