Are you doing all you can to protect your heart health with RA? These questions will help you see where you're doing well and where you may need to make some changes.
What triggers you to smoke?
What can you do instead?
How do you feel when you don't smoke?
Quick Tip: Keep your hands occupied, smoking is a habit that involves your hands.
What stops you from exercising?
What are some simple ways you can get moving?
What are some benefits of exercise?
Quick Tip: Try chair yoga, it's easier on your joints. Find a video online and follow along.
How can you eat that’s healthier?
How can you work healthier foods into your diet?
How do you feel when you eat foods that are good for you?
Quick Tip: Want the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids but not a fan of fish? Fish oil supplements may help.
How can you manage your emotions?
What emotional issues do you have because of your RA?
What steps can you take to manage these feelings? (Ideas: See a therapist, join a support group, try mind-body techniques like yoga or meditation.)
Quick Tip: Stress relief may be as close as your phone. You can find a variety of stress management apps reviewed by experts at PsyberGuide.org.
What stops you from taking your medications as prescribed?
What can you do to address this? (Ideas: Talk with your doctor about side effects, find sources of financial assistance, set up a system to remind yourself)
If you’re not having active symptoms, have you talked with your doctor about modifying your treatment plan?
Quick Tip: If you put off refilling your prescription, try asking for a larger supply or setting up an auto-fill option with your pharmacist.
Show Sources
Photo Credit: kali9 / Getty Images
SOURCES:
Johns Hopkins Rheumatology: “Chair Yoga for Improved Mobility.”
Arthritis Foundation: “Why it’s a Bad Idea to Skip Meds,” “How Stress Affects Arthritis.”
NPS MedicineWise: “Fish oil supplements: do they have a role in the management of rheumatoid arthritis?”
The Monday Campaigns: “Keep Your Hands Busy to Stay Cigarette Free.”
One Mind PsyberGuide: “Apps and digital health resources reviewed by experts.”
