A disorder that women are 3 times more likely to suffer from, rheumatoid arthritis affects as many as 1.3 million people in the US.
Unfortunately, arthritis is a degenerative condition too, meaning it worsens over time. This may lead many sufferers and carers to search for ways to reduce discomfort and arthritis swelling too.
So, are there any ways that you can reduce the discomfort and swelling linked to arthritis? Read on to find out!
Table of Contents
What Is Arthritis?
First things first! In this article, we will be talking primarily about rheumatoid arthritis. We will also touch on osteoarthritis too. Why? because these are the 2 most common types diagnosed in the US.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition. The immune system is attacking the body by mistake, leading to the swelling and discomfort associated with this disorder.
Osteoarthritis is more common. It is linked more heavily with older people and is the ‘wear and tear’ type of arthritis. It commonly occurs in the knees, hips, and hands.
Both types impact mainly on the joints and are associated with arthritis joint degeneration. This is where the joint and the cartilage surrounding it break down due to wear and tear. The bone in the joints rub against each other, causing discomfort.
Reducing Arthritis Swelling
Fortunately, there are many simple dietary and lifestyle changes that arthritis sufferers can make that will reduce the associated inflammation.
Here are some of the most popular ways which have been disclosed by those who have arthritis. Enjoy!
Diet
You are what you eat, and never is this more accurate when it comes to managing a chronic disorder like arthritis.
Research points to a diet rich in vitamin K and the Mediterranean diet to minimize inflammation. Aim to consume oily fish like salmon, nuts, beans, and roasted vegetables. Cut out saturated fats and processed foods, and limit your sugar and salt.
Why not also add the world-famous spice turmeric to your diet?
Exercise
You don’t have to run a marathon to manage arthritis! Instead, aim for low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, yoga, and cycling. For best results, try to do a little exercise each day rather than waiting until the weekend.
But as is the way with exercise, if you are in discomfort, don’t overdo it, and always stop when you feel discomfort or extreme fatigue. You don’t want to pull a muscle!
Massage
Massage is fantastic for relieving stress but also for encouraging blood flow into areas of the body. And, shocker, it is also great for relieving inflammation and associated discomfort.
But be sure that the person who is providing the massage is adequately trained and is aware that you have arthritis. This will ensure that the massage is targeted to your needs and will reduce the risk of inadequate treatment for your discomfort.
Lifestyle
It is well known that smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol will heighten the symptoms of an inflammatory disorder. This is also true for arthritis. If you smoke, it may be worth considering reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke or seeking help to quit altogether.
As for alcohol consumption, try to reduce it to once a week, and be sure to steer clear of spirits such as gin and vodka. All alcohol causes dehydration to the system, which can lead to more than a headache the day after if you have arthritis!
Further Help
There is currently no cure for arthritis. But by utilizing lifestyle changes, massage, and exercise, and by altering your diet, you can help to minimize the negative side-effects like swelling and discomfort. And as they are all beneficial changes for your body anyway, you have nothing to lose! Perfect!
Did you find any of the tips in this article helpful? For more information about health and arthritis swelling management, visit our blog page.
