HANDLING RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS FLARE UPS DURING RAINY DAYS

Most people suffering with Rheumatoid Arthritis, experience flareups during the monsoon. However, all it takes are a few intentional steps towards staving off surges of pain and discomfort.

Staying warm is key to your wellbeing during rainy weather, especially if it’s unusually chilly and wet outdoors. Wear extra layers of clothing. A light jacket or sweater is recommended. Use a heater in your room if necessary, and most especially if your room is draughty.

If your pain intensifies, soaking in a tub is highly effective. If you don’t have a bath tub, then take a warm shower, directing the jets of water to where the pain is. A warm/hot bath or shower gets your circulation going, and also massages your joints, both of which are effective in beating the pain.

Essential Oils are a good way to control Rheumatic pains during the rainy season. These oils are derived and produced from the oils of certain natural herbs, flowers, fruit and other plants. They have a strong aroma, are fragrant and soothing, and also have a sweet or spicy flavour.

Essential Oils have been used to treat joint pain and stiffness for literally thousands of years. In fact, before modern medical therapies took over, both Indian and Chinese medical practices included the use of essential oils to treat rheumatic pains.

Some Essential Oils recommended for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis are Peppermint, Orange, Ginger, Frankincense, Myrrh and Turmeric.  All these oils have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Another way to control Rheumatoid Arthritis pains is to stay active and exercise frequently. Exercise staves off stiffness in your joints and also prevents weight gain which lays added stress on your joints. It also gets those all important endorphins going, and these can actually block the pain. However, it is vital to consult your Doctor before undertaking any kind of exercise regimen, if you are suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis. Therapeutic exercise like Yoga, Tai Chi or Swimming (not in cold water) can prove very beneficial in the treatment of joint pain. However, if the weather is exceptionally cold, and you notice that you experience pain flareups in that particular temperature, then you are advised to limit outdoor activity.  In such cases, head to the gym and benefit from an easy workout on an exercise bike or a treadmill. You can even use light weights, resistance bands or a balance ball, but be sure to check with your Doctor before you undertake any form of exercise – either outdoor or indoor

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Stretch! Focused and frequent stretching can help stave off pain and stiffness. Perform a series of very gentle stretching exercises every day during the monsoon.If you suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis, then it helps to watch what you’re eating during the monsoon. Try to cut back on sugar and opt for a diet that’s low cholesterol, and high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Increase your intake of fish (especially salmon), and get lots of fibre from vegetables, fruit and whole grains.

Stay well, stay happy and also stay in touch with your Doctor!