WHEN YOUR RA IS NOT IMPROVING

It is easy to get frustrated when you feel that your RA is not getting better despite your best efforts to follow your treatment plan.  Since there are many different treatment options, it is important to maintain hopeful and never give up if your RA continues to gie you trouble. 

If you just started your medications, it can take time for your treatment to work. At first, you may not notice any improvements, and then you may have some ups and downs.  But week by week, you should notice that you are getting better.  After a few weeks, if you are still having a lot of symptoms, schedule a phone call of office appointment with your rheumatologist. 

It is possible that your doctor doesn’t quite have what it takes to successfully treat your RA.  Many primary care providers, and even some rheumatologists may not have a big enough “bag of tricks” to make the proper adjustments when your medications are not working for you. Get a second opinion for a fresh perspective.

Always remember that that there are many things you can do on your own to improve your condition.  Activity modifications, healthy diet, weight loss, relaxation techniques, smoking cessation, and other interventions allow you to take control of RA 24/7.  These home remedies can give you added benefits that may boost the effectiveness of your medic

Above all, remember to speak up and take action when you feel that your RA is not improving.  While it is important to be patient to allow your treatment plan to work, you should never settle for being continually miserable with symptoms.  As the main collaborator of your healthcare team, utilize your partnetships with your doctors by maintaining consistent ommunication so that your voice is heard and you get the medical attention you need and deserve.