Say Goodbye To RA Pain: Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis With Lifestyle Changes And CBD Oil
Written By
Nishant Garund
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Varuni AgarwalDr. Varuni Agarwal is an esteemed Ayurvedic physician specializing in diagnosing diseases through Ayurvedic dosha imbalances and providing personalized treatments. She focuses on ahara (diet) and vihara (lifestyle) to manage and heal various ailments.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues. This inflammation can lead to pain, stiffness, and eventually joint damage, affecting the daily activities of those who have it. Here, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for RA.
Table of Contents
Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The exact cause of RA is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that the disease may develop when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints and surrounding tissues. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing RA include smoking, hormonal changes, and infections.
Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis
The primary symptoms of RA are joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. The pain is often symmetrical, affecting both sides of the body equally. Other symptoms of RA may include fatigue, fever, weight loss, and decreased range of motion. In some cases, the disease may also affect other parts of the body, including the eyes, skin, heart, and lungs.
Treatment Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis
There is no cure for RA, but there are several effective treatments that can help manage the disease and reduce its impact on daily life. These include:
- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can also be used to slow the progression of RA and prevent joint damage.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help develop an exercise program to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
- Assistive devices: Canes, walkers, and other assistive devices can help reduce stress on the joints and improve mobility.
- Surgery: In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary to relieve pain and improve joint function.
Lifestyle changes to manage rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. It can greatly affect a person’s daily life, making it difficult to perform routine activities. But, making certain lifestyle changes can help manage the symptoms of RA and lead to an improved quality of life. Here are ten important lifestyle changes that can help manage RA:
- Exercise: Regular exercise can help improve joint flexibility, increase strength, and reduce pain in people with RA. Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga are great options.
- Healthy diet: Consuming a balanced and nutritious diet can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Adding anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3-rich fish, nuts, and fruits can help manage RA symptoms.
- Proper sleep: Getting adequate sleep is important for managing RA as it helps reduce inflammation and promotes recovery. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can increase RA symptoms, so it’s important to find ways to manage stress levels. Activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help reduce stress.
- Smoking cessation: Smoking can increase inflammation and worsen RA symptoms, so quitting smoking can help improve RA outcomes.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight can put extra strain on the joints, leading to increased pain and discomfort. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help manage RA symptoms.
- Assistive devices: Using assistive devices like canes, walkers, or braces can help relieve joint pain and improve mobility.
- Medication management: Taking medications as prescribed by a doctor can help reduce pain and inflammation. Keeping track of the medications and their effects can help adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve joint function and mobility. Working with a physical therapist can help develop an individualised exercise plan.
- Support system: Having a support system, whether it be family, friends, or a support group, can help reduce stress and provide emotional support. Talking about RA and how it affects daily life can also help manage symptoms.
Making these lifestyle changes can help manage RA symptoms and lead to an improved quality of life. It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with RA is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, these changes can help provide a starting point for those with RA in their journey to better health.
CBD for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has gained popularity in recent years as a natural remedy for various health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. The use of CBD for Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms is a topic of ongoing research and has shown promising results.
How CBD Can Help with RA Symptoms
The use of CBD oil for managing RA symptoms is a topic of ongoing research and has shown promising results.
- Pain relief: CBD is believed to have pain-relieving properties, which can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with RA. CBD may work by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals in the brain.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the joints associated with RA. This reduction in inflammation can help relieve pain and improve joint function.
- Improved sleep: RA can cause pain and discomfort that interferes with sleep, leading to increased fatigue and decreased quality of life. CBD may help improve sleep by reducing anxiety and pain, allowing for better rest and recovery.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can increase RA symptoms, so managing stress levels is important. CBD has been shown to have stress-relieving and calming effects, which can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
- No adverse side effects: Unlike some prescription medications for RA, CBD oil does not have any known adverse side effects, making it a safer option for managing RA symptoms.
It’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD oil on RA, and its use should be discussed with a doctor. Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that the CBD oil used is high-quality and from a reputable source.
How to choose the right CBD for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
With the growing popularity of CBD oil, it’s important to ensure that you are buying the right product for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider when buying CBD for rheumatoid arthritis:
- Quality: Look for high-quality, lab-tested CBD oil from a reputable source. The label should specify the CBD content and indicate that the product has been tested for contaminants.
- Type of CBD: There are two main types of CBD: full-spectrum and CBD isolate. Full-spectrum CBD contains all the compounds found in the hemp plant, including CBD and other cannabinoids, while CBD isolates only contain pure CBD. Some research suggests that full-spectrum CBD may be more effective in managing RA symptoms due to the interaction of the different compounds in the hemp plant.
- Dosage: It’s important to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it to find the right amount. The recommended dosage may vary based on factors such as body weight and the severity of symptoms. It’s best to consult with a doctor to determine the right dosage for your specific needs.
- Delivery method: CBD oil can be taken orally, topically, or through inhalation. Oral consumption is the most common method, but topical or inhalation methods may be more effective for localised pain relief.
- Price: While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it’s important to remember that the quality of the product and its potency can be reflected in the price. Investing in a high-quality, lab-tested product is likely to be more effective in managing RA symptoms.
Buying the right CBD for arthritis pain requires careful consideration of several key factors. Look for high-quality, lab-tested products from a reputable source, consider the type of CBD, determine the right dosage, choose the delivery method that works best for you, and be willing to invest in a quality product. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you are buying the right CBD oil for your RA symptoms and improving your chances of experiencing relief.
The Takeaway
RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints and surrounding tissues. While there is no cure, effective treatments are available that can help manage the disease and reduce its impact on daily life. If you suspect you may have RA, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
The use of CBD for managing RA symptoms is a promising option for those seeking natural remedies. While more research is needed, the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of CBD oil may provide relief for those with RA. However, it’s important to consult a doctor before using CBD for arthritis pain to ensure that it’s safe and effective for each individual’s unique situation.