How to Manage Your Social Life when You Have Arthritis

Common Symptoms of Arthritis

Arthritis is common as we age, but it is also possible to develop arthritis even if you are young and have been diagnosed with a variety of autoimmune diseases. The most common signs of arthritis include achy joint pain in the fingers, neck, wrists, arms, legs, and other major areas of the body. Arthritis is not one simple diagnosis, as it affects each individual suffering from it in its own unique way. Many times, arthritis is a sign of inflammation throughout the body.

Eliminate Arthritis Triggers

Eliminate triggers of arthritis such as foods and beverages that are high in sugar, carbohydrates, and other additives. Steer clear of processed foods with plenty of chemicals and additives as these are much more likely to contribute to the inflammation you experience throughout your body, adding to the symptoms of arthritis you feel.

Alcohol and smoking cigarettes can also contribute to the amount of inflammation you have in your body, regardless of the cause of your arthritis. Additionally, humid, damp climates also play a role in causing arthritis “flares”, which is why it is best to remain in a temperature-controlled environment as much as possible if you have severe arthritis of any kind.

Communicate With Loved Ones Openly

Communicating with family, friends, and loved ones openly help to alleviate the feeling of being “unheard” or feeling as if you are a burden to those in your life. Speak candidly about your arthritis and how it impacts your daily life, along with how you still want to remain social and spend time with the people in your lives.

Having a support group within your circle of family members and friends is a way to remain positive even during days that your arthritis is flaring up and extremely painful. With understanding loved ones, never feel guilt or shame if you are unable to make it to an upcoming outing, especially during a flare. True friends and supportive family members will always remain by your side when you are struggling to overcome an arthritis flare.

Take Time to Rest

While we are so familiar with managing hectic and busy schedules, it is imperative to rest if you suffer from arthritis frequently, regardless of your age and overall health. Take time to rest to allow your body to repair itself while giving your muscles and joints a break, especially if you have just experienced a bout of severe arthritis. Allowing yourself to rest helps to minimize flare-ups so you are able to stick to any schedule you prefer.

When you do not get an adequate amount of rest, you are much more likely to feel constant severe arthritic pain, which may ultimately keep you from making plans or attend social events, further contributing to the mental and emotional agony arthritis can cause.

The more you understand arthritis and how it works in your body, the easier it becomes to schedule outings and social gatherings according to your own abilities. Getting in touch with your body and having a better understanding of your own arthritis symptoms is a way to ensure you make the most out of your next social event.