Feeling Down Because Of Arthritis? Here Are Some Helpful Tips
If you're reading this, you may be feeling desperate. Living with arthritis isn't easy under any circumstances, but it's even harder when you don't have good advice on how to cope. In this article, you'll find some great tips that will help you manage your arthritis and deal better with the effects of your disease.
When making a new purchase for your home or kitchen, keep your arthritis in mind when you are deciding what to buy. Buy items that are lightweight and that don't require repetitive movements. Just simply buying an electric can opener can save your hands from a lot of pain and stress.
Keeping an arthritis journal can actually help you control your symptoms. Each time your arthritis is bothering you, write about what you do that day in your journal. This way, you can start to see a pattern as to what is causing your arthritis pain so you can slow down on that activity.
Many people with arthritis become depressed because of their condition. It can alter many different aspects of their lives. Consider going to counseling to help you feel better. Counseling can help you identify problems in a way that will help you to think and act differently so that you can feel good about yourself.
Stay away from heating pads if your arthritis is flaring up. All they are going to do is make your symptoms worse. Instead, apply a cold compress to the area where your arthritis is located. You could even wrap a package of frozen peas or another frozen vegetable in a towel and apply to the area.
Before you begin self-treating for arthritis pain, be absolutely certain that the cause of your joint pain and stiffness is really osteoarthritis. A lot of people make assumptions that aches and pains they suffer as they age are from arthritis, but a wide variety of ailments can cause joint pain. A CT-Scan is the best way to know if your pain is really caused by arthritis.
Eat light foods. Eating heavy meals can make anyone feel slow and sluggish, and that effect is multiplied on those that suffer from arthritis. Having a light soup instead of a heavy steak can keep you feeling peppy and positive instead of fatigued and painful, so skip anything that may be too much.
Protein should be a key part of your diet, when battling arthritis fatigue. You need protein to rebuild the parts of your body which are damaged by exercise or injury, so ensuring that you get an ample amount in your diet is hugely important. If you don't like to eat meat, try adding some protein powder to a smoothie for breakfast.
Educate yourself about arthritis to help you find appropriate ways to manage your condition. Every person's body reacts differently to medication, exercise and changes in daily life. By becoming informed, you may discover an alternate treatment effective for your individual symptoms. However, before making significant changes, be sure to consult your doctor for guidance.
Do not let your pain and lack of flexibility keep you from taking care of yourself. The advice in this piece can be transformational for anyone dealing with arthritis.