How to Regain Energy When You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis in Vacaville

If you're suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) in Vacaville, then there's no doubt that you're also suffering from joint pain and swelling. But you might also be in the grip of a less tangible symptom known as chronic fatigue. In fact, chronic fatigue can become a frustrating RA symptom.

People who are suffering from RA would describe their fatigue as something of deep tiredness or slowing down, which is similar to recovering from the flu.

Apart from RA, there are other potential causes of fatigue. You need to be evaluated for reversible causes of chronic fatigue such as anemia, depression, hypothyroidism, and sleep apnea. Depression can take a toll on your energy levels and create a snowball effect. Other underlying causes of exhaustion could come as a side effect from your medications or poor sleep.

Once you have determined the cause of your fatigue, you can ask your doctor about eliminating it or get proper treatment. You must come up with a strategy that tackles multiple fronts and goes beyond the basics such as taking frequent breaks so that you'll get your energy levels back.

Energy-Boosting Strategies in Vacaville

If you want to fight fatigue, then it should start by taking good care of yourself. The following tips will help you manage chronic RA fatigue and regain your energy.

1. Kick-start your exercise routine - Inactivity can become a vicious cycle. RA fatigue can make it difficult for you to move around and inactivity can worsen it. People with RA feel energized after doing some exercises. If you are unsure about your exercise routine, try talking with a physical therapist on how to do so. The best exercises for this condition are low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and stationary cycling.
2. Try assistive devices - There are certain devices that can help minimize the energy you use daily when you're at home and at work. Home devices include buttonhooks, zipper pulls, gripping and reaching tools, electric can openers, and bathroom bars and handrails. For your workplace, use a height-adjustable chair and work surface and perhaps a hands-free telephone headset. You can talk with an occupational therapist to help you find the right tools and adjustments that could save you energy and be more comfortable throughout the day.
3. Nix the naps - To achieve a good night's sleep, you must start incorporating healthy sleep habits. If possible, avoid napping during the daytime. You must be awake for the entire 16 hours so that you can sleep well at night. The best way to do this is to follow a 7 a.m. getting up and 11 p.m. sleeping routine. Once you go to sleep, make sure that the bedroom has a quiet setup and must provide a relaxing ambiance. Avoid any entertainment setting so that you won't be distracted when going to sleep. Also, alcohol and heavy meals should be avoided before bedtime and limit your coffee intake in the afternoon. If you follow your bed and waking up routine regularly, there's no doubt that you will establish a quality sleep routine that will leave you feeling refreshed.

Fighting chronic fatigue due to RA can be successful if you have a team to help you through it. But keep in mind that the most important member of your care team is yourself. Learn everything there is to know about RA to get the fatigue under control so that you can get your energy back in no time.