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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What advances have been made in RA treatment? A: Today, many rheumatologists have been using a combination of treatments to account for the different ways that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect you. One particular treatment that has shown great promise is called targeted B-cell therapy. Q: What is the “right” RA treatment for me? A: There is no “best” treatment for all people with RA, but depending on how RA affects you, the "right" treatment is the treatment that best meets your needs. It's the treatment that helps you focus more on your life and less on RA. To help define your needs and find a treatment that meets them, review the list of questions below and discuss the answers with your rheumatologist.
Q: How do I determine what type of treatment would best fit my lifestyle? A: Consider 2 aspects of treatment that have a significant impact on lifestyle—method and frequency. Most people would agree that a pill is the most convenient method of treatment. But many RA treatments, including all biologics, are given by injection or infusion. So there's a lot to consider in terms of method. As for frequency, some RA treatments are administered as often as daily, but most people would agree that less is more. Q: How can I make the most of my doctor appointments? A: Be proactive. Tell your rheumatologist everything that relates to how you've been feeling and how that's been impacting your life. Come prepared to your appointments with a prioritized list of talking points, and take notes. The more open you are and the more you discuss, the more informed your treatment decisions will be. Q: Why should I track my symptoms? A: Keeping a journal of your RA can help you treat it in 3 ways:
Q: Should I exercise with RA? A: Though it's no substitute for treatment, regular exercise can benefit how you live with RA. The key is to start slowly, progress at a comfortable pace, and keep a journal to track how you're doing. Once you develop a routine, the results should be well worth your effort. Please consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program. Q: How can diet affect RA? A: You may have heard claims that the right diet can provide relief from RA. Unfortunately, studies show that diet alone is not the answer. But diet is still important to your health, and it can impact the way you live with RA. The Arthritis Foundation recommends a diet low in saturated fats and calories, and rich in fruits, vegetables, and grains. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, and remember that diet is no substitute for treatment. Q: Are there other ways besides treatment to manage my pain and stress? A: Though there's no substitute for finding the right RA treatment, there are some other ways to manage your pain and stress. These include:
Q: How can I help others better understand RA? A: The key is to be as open as possible. Tell your family and friends how you feel and what your needs are, and ask them to do the same. We all like to feel independent, like we don't have to rely on others, but everyone needs help from time to time. Don't be afraid to ask for some, and return the favor when you're feeling better. For a guide that you can hand out to family and friends to help them better understand RA, click here. |
