Just looking for some help in reducing the flares or the severity of them. I suffer excruciating pain when it affects my wrist and ankles. I take hydroxychloroquine.
Hi great question. In terms of food, it's different for everyone. A lot of people find relief by avoiding gluten, sugar, alcohol, and diary for some time. Others have done actual food testing to see what is bothering them. But also general lifestyle like minimizing stress, getting good amount of sleep, exercise can help. In addition to medication like you're taking. Though sometimes you may need more or less. How are you doing on the hydroxychloroquine? Do you think it's helping enough? What has your doctor suggested? Here's some good articles on flares and what other's have done. Hope it helps and that you find relief asap. -Effie, team member
Hi . On top of the excellent information from Effie, I want to share with you this article from our editorial team on the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet, which some find helpful in controlling RA: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/clinical/aip-diet and patient leader Lynn Marie wrote here about her experience with it: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/aip-diet-plan. In addition, our contributor Melissa wrote this article on top anti-inflammatory foods: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/nutrition/top-15-anti-inflammatory-foods. I do want to note that every person and case is different, so what works for one may not for another. Some community members find working with a nutritionist helpful. You may want to consult with your rheumatologist on the topic. Hope this information is helpful and please feel free to Keep us posted on how you are doing and to ask additional questions. Best, Richard (Team Member)