While treatments like medications and surgery help relieve RA symptoms, there are things you can also do at home.
Low-impact physical activities such as walking or swimming help increase or maintain muscle strength around the joints. Repetitive movements such as deep bending of the knees can lead to joint injuries. Therefore, avoid these as much as possible.
An anti-inflammatory diet (similar to the Mediterranean diet) could help reduce inflammation in the joints and lower the risk of heart disease in people with RA. These include unprocessed foods, fruits and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains and reduced sugar.
Maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce inflammation and pain, and if you smoke, try to quit.
Although you may not be able to completely prevent RA, you can take steps to reduce the risk. Starting treatment immediately can reduce long-term damage to the joints and help control swelling and pain.
