Questions and Answers

The Arthritis Society routinely receives frequently asked questions and some not so common ones. While the questions are asked by people with varied forms of arthritis and from different regions of the country, they do have something in common - they represent a hunger for knowledge and understanding. We've created this resource area for you to review some of the questions and responses our staff and volunteers gathered. We hope they offer some insights and encourage you to browse further into the site.

The questions are not organized in any particular order. You can browse them twenty questions at a time, or use the search feature to find if any questions were asked about a topic that interests you.

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Question 11
When you have arthritis are you more liable to contract other diseases  such as cancer, heart, liver of kidney conditions?

There is no evidence that people with arthritis are any more prone to serious disease such as heart disease, cancer, liver, or kidney disease.  Many  people certainly worry about these diseases in addition to their arthritis and  it is always wise to speak of these fears to your doctor so that he or she can  give you reassurance.

Question 12
What is an arthritis nodule?

Arthritis nodules are lumps which develop usually around the elbow joint in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. These nodules seldom give rise to any trouble but occasionally they may become infected and discharge their contents. If they occur in areas of pressure, they may need to be removed.

Question 13
Can I prevent a nodule from forming?

There is no way in which you can prevent a nodule in rheumatoid arthritis from forming.

Question 14
Should I try to be active and live normally or rest more?

A person who suffers from active arthritis should live by the ideal of  moderation in everything.  This is particularly true with physical activity.  You should be reasonably active so that your joints do not stiffen up, but at the same time, you should also ensure that you get adequate physical rest.  In other  words, try to lead as normal a life as possible.

Question 15
What exercise should I try? 

Be sure to check with your doctor or physiotherapist before starting any exercise program to see which exercises are best for your needs, how often you should exercise, and how much exercise you should be doing.  Exercise helps decrease pain and stiffness, helps maintain joint movement and flexibility, helps increase or maintain muscle strength, and helps prevent deformity.  There are 2 broad categories of exercise: therapeutic exercise prescribed by a physiotherapist or physician, and recreational exercise which includes any form  of movement, amusement or relaxation that refreshes the body and mind. 

Question 16
Is protein good for me and should I eat more of the foods in my diet containing it than others?

Protein is good for you.  You should certainly have protein-containing  foods, but you do not need to eat more of these foods than others.  A normal  well-balanced diet contains adquate protein. If you have gout your doctor will give you special advice about protein.

Question 17
Do I get enough iron, calcium and vitamins from my daily diet, or should I take pills to increase my intake?

If you are eating a normal well-balanced diet you should be getting  enough iron, calcium and vitamins in your daily food.  Rarely will you need  supplements, but be guided in this by your own doctor.  

Question 18
Does alcohol have any affect on arthritis?  

Drinking alcohol in moderation neither does good or harm to joints   affected by arthritis.  Acute alcohol intoxication can result in a sharp rise in  the blood level of uric acid, and can lead to an acute attack of gout.  Prolonged heavy drinking can cause the hip joints to crumble. If a person drinks  to excess for many years, the balls of his or her hip joints start to crumble and die.  This phenomenon is called avascular necrosis.

Question 19
Can I lead a normal married life? Will I be able to look after my children?  

Most people with arthritis can continue to lead a normal, happily  married life.  Many have families which they are able to look after.  Difficulties do, of course, occur because of arthritis and you should take  advantage of the various types of support that are available.
 

Question 20
Members of my family are always rushing to do things for me; this makes me very angry as I like to try things for myself. What can I do?

It is understandable that relatives always rush to help you.   What you  must do is to explain to them quietly that, although you appreciate their kindness, it is important that you continue to do as much as you can for  yourself and to do this is an important part of your treatment.  If they still  persist, ask your doctor or occupational therapist to explain it to them.

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