When you’re diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), your doctor will likely hand you a prescription for medicines. Unfortunately, getting the right medication can be tough. That’s because despite the existence of many different varieties of arthritis medication, not all of them are suitable for everyone. This is especially true if you have allergies to certain medications or if you’re not yet 35 years of age.
To ensure you get the best possible care while taking your medications, it’s crucial to select a medical doctor (MD) who is knowledgeable about the treatments for your particular type of arthritis and who is able to tailor the medications to your specific needs and sensitivities. In this article, we’ll discuss how to find the right MD for your needs.
Know The Difference Between Soreness And Pain
One of the most important things you can do for your health is to learn how to tell the difference between soreness and pain. Have you ever bumped your wrist or ankle and experienced immediate pain? Probably not. However, the person sitting next to you may have cried out in agony as they were tossed around in their seat. Soreness is just that — it’s the feel of your muscles being irritated due to lack of movement or overexertion. Soreness can be alleviated by rest and ice packs. In most cases, mild soreness will pass within a few days.
On the other hand, acute pain is sharp and localized, and it usually indicates an injury has occurred. It’s also usually accompanied by physical signs such as swelling and redness. Acute pain can be debilitating if not treated properly; therefore, it’s important to find out what’s causing it in the first place.
Learn About The Side Effects Of Your Medication
One of the main reasons behind turning to medicines is to alleviate the aches and pains associated with arthritis. While medication can be very helpful, it also comes with side effects. It’s vital that you understand these effects and are willing to deal with them if the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks. Some of the more common side effects of arthritis medication include nausea, diarrhea, and rash. If you experience any adverse reactions to your medication, be sure to let your doctor know.
Consider Allergies And Avoidance Of The Allergens
Just like everyone else, you have allergies and sensitivities to things. Some of these may be more prominent than others. If you have a history of allergies or if you’re already sensitized to something, then you should avoid being around it when taking your medication. Doing this may help reduce the chance of experiencing a negative reaction. In these situations, an alternative source of medication or an allergy test may be necessary to ensure you get the best possible results.
Look For A Physician Who Specializes In Arthritis
As discussed, not all arthritis medication is created equal. Some physicians are better suited than others for helping you find the right medication for your needs. One important thing to consider is whether the doctor specializes in arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis (RA). If you have a history of RA, then you should look for a rheumatologist who specializes in this particular type of arthritis. In addition to being experts in RA, many rheumatologists will be familiar with the ins and outs of treating various types of arthritis.
Take Your Medications As Proscribed
When you meet with your doctor to re-up on your prescription, don’t deviate from the advice they give you regarding the proper way to take your meds. Some people may be more sensitive to certain medications than others, so if you notice that a certain brand or form of medicine doesn’t agree with you, then you should let your doctor know. In some cases, this may mean that you should try a different medication or brand.
Your doctor may also have certain suggestions as to when to take your medications and how often. Follow their instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if something is not making sense to you. Being proactive and doing your due diligence can ensure you get the best results from your medicines and prevent adverse reactions.
Look For One-On-One Visits With The Doctor
As a patient, you have the right to ask your doctor about any aspect of your health, including your medications. However, one of the best things you can do for your health is to take an active role in managing your medication. You can do this by making regular appointments with your doctor. During these visits, you can bring up any questions you have about your medications or have about the disease process in general. You can also ask for refills to be on the safe side.
Follow Up With The Doctor After Your Medication Expires
After your medication expires, it’s important that you follow up with your doctor to make sure you’re still taking it properly. This is especially important if you have any questions regarding the disease or if you’re experiencing side effects. In some instances, you may need to switch medications or try a different brand. If your symptoms return or persist, then you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Many times, patients will pick up on side effects before their doctor does. If you experience any negative reactions to your medication, be sure to mention them to your doctor so they can be addressed. Ideally, you want to find a medication that helps your body in some way but that has fewer side effects; if you do experience any.
Most importantly, stay active and remain optimistic about the future. You’re on your way to better health, and with a little bit of effort, you can continue improving your quality of life.