Medical Forum, professional approach

If you were recently diagnosed with arthritis or one of the other rheumatic diseases, you may be feeling anxious, even a little overwhelmed. This is a natural response to an unexpected bend in the road.

But how do you handle your very real concerns? By knowing the facts.

First, the reality. With proper treatment, you can manage this condition and still have a good and productive life. There is an arsenal of proven effective medications and expert health professionals who will help.

However, you also have to take control of the situation. That means making sure you get adequate exercise, ample rest and good nutrition. It also means learning about this disease and taking steps to address your own needs.

In fact, it is the knowledge you acquire, the persistence you show in learning how your body best responds, and the positive approach you take to your new life style that will spell the difference between just coping with rheumatic disease and living well, despite your diagnosis.

You are not alone. An estimated 43 million people in the United States of all ages and genders have arthritis or other rheumatic conditions.

Many rheumatic diseases are chronic conditions. They are unlikely to go away.

There may not be a cure for your condition, but effective management is available for most.

Many people with rheumatic disease lead happy, satisfying lives year after year.

Arthritis and rheumatic disease are really a family of illnesses that can cause inflammation (redness, swelling and pain), degeneration of joints and surrounding structure and pain. They also may make it difficult to do daily activities. In fact, there are more than 100 different rheumatic conditions including but not limited to osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and scleroderma.

While the symptoms may vary, as a rule, these conditions target the musculoskeletal system including the bones, joints, muscles, and tendons that contribute to function. Some people can also have internal organ involvement or even more than one of these conditions at the same time.

Therefore, it may take time for your family doctor and/or rheumatologist to determine your particular diagnosis and the best treatment approach for you. Your participation in this effort—and your patience—will make a substantial contribution to a successful diagnosis and your comfort levels.

What can you do?

Make your medical visit count!

Plan ahead for your consultations and, above all, communicate.

Arrive with a list of your specific concerns.

Consider bringing someone with you who can serve as an additional set of “ears” and take notes as appropriate.

Respond to the medical professional's queries honestly and directly.

Talk about your emotions, stress or discomfort if they are interfering with your lifestyle.

Ask for a clearer explanation if you don't you understand any recommended treatment including benefits, instructions and duration

Ask about where to find reliable source of information to learn more about your condition and about community resources

Feel free to ask questions about the cost and side effects of medications, treatments, or other points discussed.

Seek information

Make a concerted effort to learn more about your condition and how best to cope with it. Augment the information health care professionals provide with the wealth of additional resources available including:

The Arthritis Foundation. The national office and many local chapters offer classes, books, videos and free informational brochures on self-management, water and exercise programs, and other important topics.

Other rheumatic disease organizations.

Find help and resources

Identify the team of medical professionals who will be of the most benefit to you. Initially, your rheumatologist, who has special training in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases, will probably work closely with your primary care provider. Once you are diagnosed, a number of other medical care providers are available to help you manage your condition including:

Nurses

Physical therapists

Occupational therapists

Pharmacists

Health educators

Social workers

Psychologists

Orthopedic Surgeons

Get Involved

Rather than giving rheumatic condition control over your life, get involved. Take an active role in planning your care. Ask questions. Work with your rheumatologist and medical team to decide the treatments that work best for you. Make a point to learn more about:

Your medications

Exercise programs

Relaxation and pain management

Balancing rest and activity

Nutrition and weight control

Managing stress

Talk to others

For personal reinforcement, find support groups where you can talk, share and interact others. Check with your doctor or health professional about community volunteer groups in your area that can provide additional input and assistance.

Then make a difference on a national level. Join the Advocates for Arthritis Program organized by the American College of Rheumatology, a network of members and patients who are apprised of important votes taking place in Congress which affect patient care, the practice of rheumatology, and federal funding of rheumatology research. You can help generate support for research and lobbying efforts that enhance the quality of life for patients just like you.

Maintain a positive attitude

Believe it or not, your attitude will make a difference. Meeting your treatment and your new situation half way redirects your energies into success.

Be flexible and open to treatment choices

Find new ways to continue enjoying your favorite activities

Communicate openly and encourage others to do the same

Remember it's okay to ask for help

Not interested in exercising? Think again. Exercising can help decrease pain, reduce disease symptoms and make a substantial contribution to your overall flexibility. Plus it will improve your mental outlook!

Pick a group of exercises that contribute to improved fitness and strengthening from walking and water aerobics to bicycling and dancing. Join friends, take along a book on tape or just get going. The trick is getting started and developing a routine. If the exercise path you are taking is strenuous, check with your physician first.

Give yourself the time you need to get better. Don't feel guilty about asking your family, friends, and colleagues for the support you need to get your rest, exercise, and medical care. Learn to say no to outside commitments when you need to, so that you can focus on getting well. Many people with chronic illness feel low, discouraged, or even overwhelmed at times. Make sure you get the support you need through your friends, family, church, and/or counselors to cope with the illness.

Above all, don't give up! Yes, this is a chronic condition and, no, it may not go away. But many, many patients with rheumatic diseases lead happy, fulfilling lives by learning, communicating, sharing, and taking a positive approach to coping with change

Why not be one of those individuals? Take control over how you live with rheumatic disease.

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