How to Avoid Rheumatoid Arthritis Remission Relapses

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. While there is no known cure for RA, treatment can help manage symptoms and achieve remission, which is a state of reduced or absent disease activity. However, RA remission is not always permanent and relapses can occur. Here are some tips to help avoid RA remission relapses:

1. Continue taking medications as prescribed: RA medications, such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics, are crucial in managing RA symptoms and achieving remission. It is important to continue taking these medications as prescribed, even when feeling well. Stopping medications without medical supervision can increase the risk of relapse.

2. Attend follow-up appointments with your doctor: Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to monitor RA disease activity and adjust treatment as needed. Skipping appointments can increase the risk of relapse.

3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can help manage RA symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.

4. Manage stress: Stress can worsen RA symptoms and increase the risk of relapse. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or relaxation techniques can help manage stress.

5. Avoid triggers: Some factors can trigger RA relapses, such as infections, injury, and certain medications. Avoiding known triggers can help reduce the risk of relapse.

6. Keep a symptom diary: Keeping track of RA symptoms can help identify patterns and triggers that may be contributing to relapses. This information can be shared with your doctor to help guide treatment.

7. Seek medical attention promptly: If symptoms of a relapse occur, seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment can help prevent the relapse from becoming more severe.

By following these tips, people with RA can help reduce the risk of remission relapses and achieve better long-term disease control. It is important to work closely with a rheumatologist to develop an individualized treatment plan and to discuss any concerns or changes in symptoms.