Tips on self help

Coping with a flare-up ofrheumatoid arthritiscan be hard. But what really helps me is some gentle exercise (if I can manage it), a bag of frozen peas to bring down swelling and microwaveable wheat bags to ease pain (which work extremely well).

I also take paracetamol and naproxen to reduce inflammation. But sometimes, in the end all I can do is have a good cry and rest. I do take several supplements every day that I believe limit my occurrences of flare-ups and I find it is important to keep moving if at all possible. Hope this helps.

Lynn, Cheshire - 2010

Like many people withrheumatoid arthritisI find ice packs reduce heat from inflamed joints. However, my symptoms can worsen at night, creating difficulties getting up to get the ice packs from the freezer downstairs. So I fill a hot-water bottle with cold water, keep it beside my bed, use when needed, it works as good as ice!

Pamela, Northumberland - 2014

Many years ago my son, a research scientist into bone diseases and arthritic conditions, gave me a piece of advice that has lived with me ever since. For over 40 years I had suffered with arthritis, gradually losing the ability to perform many tasks originally well within my capabilities. The suggestion, while sounding simple, was not to dwell on all the things I could no longer do but to concentrate on the things that I could still accomplish.

This took away the feelings of inadequacy and drove me to pursue a dream I had nurtured for many years. In 2012 I had a first book, 'Curse of The Mardale Skull', published at the age of 77. I hope this encourages others! One other motto that always springs to mind is: “It’s only a hill – get over it!”

George, via email - 2014