Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the inflammation of joints that leads to the degeneration of cartilage. The condition could be due to an autoimmune disease or due to wear and tear of the joints. It is estimated that over 50 million people (about 20% of the population) suffer from rheumatic conditions like arthritis. Avoiding certain habits could help lead a better life and manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Here are seven mistakes that can aggravate the condition:

Skipping treatment
It is one of the most common mistakes that can worsen arthritis symptoms. Most people skip treatment as soon as they start feeling better. However, the condition can recur and worsen the pain to the extent that the patient might need to visit an ER. Hence, it is vital to seek treatment on time and never skip dosage for proper management of diseases. Treatment options such as Tremfya® and Plaquenil are used for relieving joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Actemra® is another treatment option that blocks the action of a protein called interleukin 6.

Eating the following foods
Food and nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining optimum health. While it is essential to include some foods to get relief from rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, the following foods must be avoided to prevent aggravation:

• Refined carbohydrates
  Refined carbohydrates such as white flour, rice, pasta, pizza, and many breakfast cereal have little to no nutrient value. Excess of these in daily diet can increase and even worsen arthritis symptoms. Consuming refined carbohydrates with refined sugar in the form of pastries and cakes can be a double whammy, as they can increase inflammation and its associated pain.
• Processed foods
  Processed foods contain high amounts of preservatives in the form of MSG (Monosodium Glutamate), which can increase the amount of uric acid and sodium in the body. Excess uric acid in the body can crystallize joints, resulting in pain and inflammation.
• Aerated drinks
  Aerated or carbonated drinks contain high amounts of sugar. These drinks increase the risk of suffering from obesity and diabetes but also reduce the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Low calcium levels in the body increase the risk of suffering osteoarthritis. Women with low calcium levels are more likely to suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.
• Meat cooked at a high temperature
  There is an increase in the AGEs (advanced glycation end product) in the blood when we eat meats cooked at high temperatures. High levels of AGEs can aggravate inflammation in the body, worsening arthritis symptoms. Meats such as beef, pork, and fried fish are rich in AGEs. So, switching to leaner meats such as chicken and steamed fish will help manage arthritis better.
• Gluten
  Gluten is a protein that helps bind the molecules of the grain together. However, the same gluten can worsen arthritis symptoms. People who are sensitive to gluten can experience inflammation in the body and can also suffer from osteoporosis (bone loss). This is because the immune system can accidentally attack gluten, considering it a harmful compound. Some gluten-rich foods such as bread, pasta, and cereal.
• Omega-6 fatty acids
  Omega-6 fatty acids are found in food sources such as sunflower oil, corn oil, beef, and pork. High amounts of these fatty acids in the body can increase inflammation, which can make it difficult to manage arthritis. Hence, it is recommended to switch to omega-3 fatty acids that are present in foods like walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, freshwater fishes, and grass-fed beef.

Lifestyle mistakes

• Leading a sedentary lifestyle
  A sedentary lifestyle is one of the biggest risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis. Lack of movement can weaken the joints, making it difficult to manage rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors suggest that some light-intensity exercises can relieve pain from arthritis and help bring stronger joints.
• Performing high-intensity exercises
  Exercises are good for health, as they improve blood circulation in the body. However, extremely intense exercises can be counterproductive for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Joints tend to wear down, and there is a progression of its wear and tear with age. Thus, performing specific exercises damages the weakened joints and aggravates rheumatoid arthritis.
• Not getting enough sleep
  Not getting enough rest can aggravate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Lack of sleep or poor sleeping habits can exacerbate pain and fatigue associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Relaxing before going to bed with meditation, deep breaths, or taking warm baths can provide relief from the pain associated with the disease.

Besides that, it would be wise to avoid the following:

• Having a bad posture
  Bad posture can put excess load on weakened joints, which can worsen rheumatoid arthritis due to imbalanced pressure on joints. A good body posture reduces the pressure from the joints, thereby reducing the risk of suffering from arthritis in the hips and knees. Some equipment, such as back and joint braces, can help distribute even pressure on the joints. Simple exercises and a healthy lifestyle can also balance BMI (body mass index), thereby avoiding excess pressure on joints.
• Wearing high heels
  High heels can put a lot of pressure on the hips and knees, which can aggravate arthritis symptoms. The cartilage surrounding the joints usually gets damaged due to constant pressure, resulting in pain and inflammation. Wearing footwear with soft padded soles can also provide relief from foot pain due to arthritis.