Other lifestyle factors, such as diet and stress levels, may also play important roles in the extent to which you are affected by RA. Studies have linked an unhealthy diet and a high-stress lifestyle with the onset of RA. Again, there are a number of reasons to eat properly and manage your stress levels. The potential ability to prevent the onset or manage the effects of RA is one more.

3. Get plenty of exercise and rest.

It can be emotionally devastating for people who can't maintain their prior exercise routine because of joint pain and stiffness from RA. If you have a routine of exercise or physical activity that is difficult to maintain because of RA, you might want to consider seeking out new activities that place less stress on your joints.

Be sure to consult your physician before beginning or changing any weight-loss or exercise program. A home exercise regime may be part of a physical or occupational therapy program that addresses strength, range of motion, flexibility and endurance. It's essential to get plenty of sleep as well. Rest can reduce inflammation from RA, whereas exercise relieves stiffness. Ask your healthcare provider if you should favor some types of exercises over others, especially for those times when symptoms are flaring up.

4. Learn what works best for you.

Some people with RA may respond favorably to pain medications, but others may derive little or no benefit. Exercise may lessen the effects of RA significantly for some patients but be less helpful for others. A number of people with the condition may lose a significant amount of strength and mobility in jointed areas, though others experience only intermittent flare-ups that subside relatively quickly.