Preparing for a rheumatoid arthritis doctor consultation is essential for optimal therapy. The disease might make it hard to get out of bed, do chores, or work if not treated.
Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, especially in the hands and wrists, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. There’s no treatment, but you may go into remission when your symptoms hardly impair your daily life. Many individuals work with a rheumatologist or primary care doctor to identify the best drugs and lifestyle modifications to lessen their symptoms.
Start A Rheumatoid Arthritis Journal
Monitor your symptoms and routines to help you recall how you feel, what you eat and your prescriptions. Doing so may help you assess your mood, identify rheumatoid arthritis triggers, and assess treatment efficacy.
Journal entries:
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- How frequently joint discomfort, stiffness, and edema occur. Describe the pain and location to assist your doctor in finding pain relief.
- Your diet.
- Your workout regimen, including frequency, kind, and after-effects.
- Smoking and drinking habits.
- Stress, depression, and anxiety.
If you’re constantly in pain and too sad to chat with your friends, your doctor needs to know how much it impacts your quality of life. Many doctors hope patients address mental health during consultations. They may recommend an insurance-network therapist.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects you emotionally and functionally. You should keep a notebook to spot depressed tendencies and less common rheumatoid arthritis symptoms like eye discomfort and redness.
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Do Your Research
Between consultations, you may have rheumatoid arthritis questions or wish to learn how others manage their symptoms. Message boards, Facebook support groups, and blogs are natural sources of knowledge.
Laura Christine Cappelli, M.D., M.H.S., M.S., assistant professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, recommends visiting trusted organizations to ensure you read evidence-based information.
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Dr. Greer recommends the Arthritis Foundation website. Visit the American College of Rheumatology website to learn more about the disease and treatment options.
Talking to individuals who understand your struggles may bring people together. You should verify these organizations’ information with
