What to Do if Joints Are Red and Swollen in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. In RA, the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the thin lining that surrounds the joints, causing it to become inflamed and swollen. This inflammation can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
Joint pain
Stiffness
Swelling
Redness
Warmth
Tenderness
Loss of function
If you have RA and your joints are red and swollen, there are a few things you can do to relieve the pain and inflammation:
1. Rest the affected joint. This means avoiding activities that put stress on the joint, such as lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous exercise.
2. Apply ice to the affected joint. Ice can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Apply ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Take pain medication. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Use a topical pain reliever. Topical pain relievers, such as creams or gels, can be applied directly to the affected joint to provide relief.
5. See a doctor. If your joint pain is severe or does not improve with home treatment, see a doctor. Your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce inflammation and pain, or recommend other treatments, such as physical therapy or surgery.
In addition to these treatments, there are a few other things you can do to help manage RA:
Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on your joints and worsen your symptoms.
Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to reduce inflammation and improve your overall health.
Exercise regularly. Regular exercise can help to strengthen your muscles and joints, and improve your range of motion.
Get enough sleep. When you are sleep-deprived, your body produces more inflammatory cytokines, which can worsen your RA symptoms.
Manage stress. Stress can trigger RA flares. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
Quit smoking. Smoking can worsen RA symptoms and increase your risk of developing complications.
RA is a chronic disease, but it can be managed with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. By following these tips, you can help to reduce your joint pain and inflammation, and improve your overall quality of life.
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