Rheumatoid Arthritis Support

Receiving a diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis may cause a person's mind to race and recall horror stories of the suffering of other people who were diagnosed with the disease in their childhood. However, the disease is much more manageable now than it was in the past. A patient who receives the right Rheumatoid Arthritis support may remain physically active for a long time.

Medical advice remains the most important source of Rheumatoid Arthritis support since there is still no cure for the disease. Doctors and nurses must monitor the condition to see how far it has progressed and how joints and sometimes organs have been damaged by the body's immune system. There are recommend drugs and activities for patients to help them keep the condition from progressing too quickly.

While medical professionals make up an important part of Rheumatoid Arthritis support, it is not the only place to receive much needed help in managing the illness. Chronic diseases take an additional toll on the sufferer, and a patient must prepare himself physically and emotionally for what he or she may have to face. A hospital might have a support group for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers, but the Internet also offers places such as forums and chat rooms for patients to share experiences as well.

Depression, anxiety and low-self esteem are the mental problems that occur most frequently in Rheumatoid Arthritis sufferers. A number of support groups exist for people suffering from mental illness that give people a forum and a safe place to talk about problems that affect them emotionally. Depression, anxiety and low self-esteem do not have to co-exist, but if they do, additional medical support may include anti-depressants and engaging in specific activities that can boost a person's self-esteem.

Rheumatoid Arthritis support includes not only monitoring the condition, but making sure a patient is ready to take manage certain aspects of this autoimmune condition. Non-emotional support may include health insurance and prescription drug coverage for controlled substances such as corticosteroids.