Chronic auto-immune disorder rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes pain and inflammation because the body destroys its cells. While the heart and other organs might be affected by RA, the disease’s primary focus is on the joints. A variety of risk factors and lifestyle decisions may influence the development of RA, although the exact etiology is still unknown. Specific actions may help postpone the beginning of the illness and limit its effect on your quality of life, but no proven method to avoid RA altogether. If you wish to keep Tampa rheumatoid arthritis away, the following are excellent prevention tips:
Avoid smoking
Inhalation of secondhand smoke is a significant contributor to the development of RA. According to one research, smoking is associated with a double chance of getting RA compared to non-smokers.
Increasing oxidative stress, inducing inflammation, and encouraging apoptosis are just ways smoking might compromise the immune system (cell death). Smoking cessation and avoidance of secondhand smoke may help prevent the onset of rheumatoid arthritis. To help you stop smoking, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides various services. A variety of options are available, including live phone lines, medicine, texts, a free smartphone app, and support groups.
Ensure you are getting enough sleep
A good night’s sleep allows for the healing of muscles and producing pain-reducing chemicals in our brains. So if you are not getting enough ZZZs, that is an issue. RA discomfort may make it difficult to sleep, and not being able to sleep makes it worse. Make an appointment with your doctor if you are struggling to obtain a good night’s sleep.
Drop the additional pounds.
People who are obese are more likely to get RA. Being overweight increases the risk of developing arthritis in women diagnosed at a younger age (55 or younger). Maintaining a healthy weight might lower your chances of developing rheumatoid arthritis. These may include, but are not limited to:
- Consult your primary care physician.
Decide on a weight loss target appropriate for your height and weight. When starting a new fitness or nutrition regimen, ask your doctor if they have any concerns about your general health.
- Weight reduction goals should be based on reality.
Losing one to one and a half pounds each week is a sensible and safe target.
- Eat a more nutritious diet.
Incorporate whole grains, fruits, and veggies into your diet. Fish, turkey, and skinless chicken are all excellent lean protein sources. Stay away from meals laden with sugar, salt, and fat, all unhealthy.
- Exercise
A good mix of aerobic and strength training can help you stay fit. For those with rheumatoid arthritis, bone loss may be a hazardous side effect. Adding a stretching regimen may also help alleviate the stiffness and discomfort of RA. Avoid strenuous exertion during a RA flare-up if you have the disease (a period of more severe arthritis pain). Exercise that is too vigorous or aggressive might exacerbate symptoms.
Researchers are now studying many various techniques for treating RA. A portion of this study aims to find ways to prevent the illness from deteriorating in those at higher risk. It is still unclear how a person’s genetic and blood indicators, which may suggest a higher chance of developing RA, influence whether or not they get the disease.