Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can lead to a wide range of health issues that can interfere with your everyday life. Apart from the severe pain, inflammation, and fatigue you experience in association with this condition, it is possible for you to suffer from sleep disorders including insomnia because of RA. The persistent pain, anxiety and stress people experience because of this condition, etc. can contribute to sleep deprivation in RA patients. Additionally, certain drugs used for rheumatic pain treatment can also interfere with your sleep cycle.
Rheumatoid arthritis can cause severe fatigue in people suffering from this condition and a lack of sleep can make this problem worse. Additionally, sleep deprivation can increase the risk of RA flare-ups thereby making your condition chronic. Not getting enough sleep can also intensify the severity of your symptoms. Therefore, it is important for RA patients to get enough rest and sleep to control their symptoms and improve their condition.
The following are some of the important things you want to know about rheumatoid arthritis and sleep disorders:
RA And Sleep Deprivation
A lot of people suffering from rheumatology arthritis find it difficult to get enough sleep because of the persistent symptoms caused by this condition. The pain and discomfort caused by RA along with the stress associated with managing this condition can contribute to sleep deprivation in people with this disorder.
Also, the corticosteroid medications like prednisone that are prescribed for managing RA symptoms can hinder your sleep. These drugs are found to create insomnia, depression, or agitation in people. Another medication that might cause sleep disorders in RA patients is hydroxychloroquine which can make people jumpy, twitchy, and nervous.
How To Improve Sleep?
If you have RA, it is important for you to take measures to get proper sleep. Some tips listed below might be helpful for you to improve your sleep if you have this condition:
Ask Your Rheumatologist About The Medications
Severe sleep deprivation caused by RA is one of the important reasons to see a rheumatologist. He might review your medications and avoid drugs that can cause sleep deprivation. Your rheumatologist may change your medications or suggest taking them at a different time of the day.
Be Mindful Of Your Diet
Taking caffeinated drinks before your bedtime might make it difficult for you to get proper sleep. Additionally, it is better to avoid alcohol and eating big meals close to your bedtime.
Exercising regularly, trying meditation, following healthy sleeping habits, etc. can also be helpful for RA patients to treat sleep disorders and get better sleep.
