November 30, 2020 at 4:55 pm · drsahai · 0 comments
Why is My Rheumatoid Arthritis Worsening?
Do you or a loved one suffer from arthritis? Learn why rheumatoid arthritis is worsening all of a sudden.
Common Reasons Behind Rheumatoid Arthritis Worsening
Patients often wonder why is their rheumatoid arthritis worsening. There are many reasons this can be happening, such as:
Flair-up’s Can Be a Reason for Rheumatoid Arthritis Worsening
RA Flair-ups will cause the joints to become inflamed. You may have a fever and a general feeling of being sick. You can put cold packs on your joints to help with the pain.
You are Stressed
Stress and depression can activate your RA. It can also put you in a foul mood. As a matter of fact, when you stress, it can release too much cortisol making symptoms worse. You need to find ways to relax to reduce the stress you feel.
Trouble Sleeping
If you have RA pain, it can be due to lack of sleep. If you do not sleep enough, your body cannot fight off the inflammation. You need to develop good habits for bedtime. You can take pain meds at night to help you get to sleep. Turn off your phone, so the light does not keep you awake.
Meds Are Not Helping and Rheumatoid Arthritis Worsening
Medication may work for some time, and things may change. Your body may develop resistance to the treatment. You need to tell your doctor so they can prescribe a new medication.
Another Health Condition
You may get a health condition related to RA. In fact, you are at an increased risk for fibromyalgia when living with rheumatoid arthritis. Your doctor can diagnose other conditions and develop a treatment plan.
You are No Longer in Remission
Treatment for RA is supposed to decrease your symptoms. You may not always stay in remission. Your symptoms will come and go. If your symptoms return, see your doctor for treatment.
You Are Not Exercising
Your RA pain and stiffness can get worse if you are not moving around. And exercise can help reduce hand pain. So, go for a walk or a swim to get moving. Stretching will also help to keep the joints moving. You should also work on strengthening your muscles.
You had a Baby and Rheumatoid Arthritis Worsening
When you are pregnant, you may not notice as many symptoms of RA. Once you have the baby, the joint pain will return. Your doctor can find treatment for you at this time.
You are Overweight
If you are overweight, you are putting more stress on your joints. This can lead to an increase in inflammation, and body fat can lead to a release of hormones. Therefore, worsening RA. It’s important to stay at an ideal weight to reduce pain.
You are a Smoker
You need to stop smoking if you have RA. Smoking can also decrease the effectiveness of the medication. Furthermore, smoking can also lead to a decrease in your energy and increase your pain. So, it’s time to quit!
You are Overactive
Exercise is good, but it can be too much of a good thing. Sometimes, you may need to take some time off or not go too heavy. Therefore, this will help prevent injury. A physical therapist can help you with the moves that are best for your joints.
Lacking Vitamin D
If you are low in vitamin D, your rheumatoid arthritis may be more active. This can also lead to an increase in pain and fatigue. Your doctor can test your blood to check your levels.
Infection
RA treatment makes it easier for you to get an infection. Your immune system is weakened, and you may have trouble fighting off germs. Even the flu can make your symptoms worse. If you are sick, you are at an increased risk for septic arthritis.
You Stopped Using Your Meds
Your medication may be expensive. You may be feeling better and stopped taking your medication. If you are experiencing side effects, be sure to speak to your doctor.
Late Diagnosis
If you were not diagnosed right away, your symptoms could be more severe. Therefore, this can lead to joint damage. Physical therapy may be able to help with the pain. However, you may also need joint replacement surgery.
Also, see: Rheumatoid Arthritis Progression
If you are wondering, why is my rheumatoid arthritis worsening? It’s a good idea to speak to a hand specialist. Call us at 888-409-8006.
