Does RA affect memory? That’s a question I hear more often than you’d think. As a Rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve had patients look at me with a mix of frustration and fear when they say, “I feel like I’m forgetting everything lately… is it the RA?” It’s not just aches and swollen joints anymore—we’re talking…
Let’s be real—coping with RA in relationships isn’t something you can prepare for. When I first started working as a Rheumatology nurse practitioner, I thought I had a solid grip on the science of rheumatoid arthritis. But it wasn’t until I sat across from couples—one quietly wincing from joint pain, the other unsure of what…
Planning a vacation when you’re living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can feel like preparing for a cross-country marathon in flip-flops. Trust me—I’ve worked with hundreds of patients over the years as a rheumatology nurse practitioner, and I’ve seen it all. From navigating unpredictable flare-ups to managing mobility and medication on the go, I get how…
Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is not just about managing physical symptoms like joint pain and stiffness; it’s also deeply intertwined with emotional well-being. From my years as a rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how RA and emotional support ideas play a crucial role in helping patients cope with the daily challenges this chronic…
If you think rheumatoid arthritis (RA) only means painful, swollen joints, you’re not alone—and that’s actually a common misconception I’ve seen many patients struggle with during my years as a Rheumatology nurse practitioner. While joint pain is a hallmark symptom, RA symptoms without joint pain can quietly creep in and often get overlooked. These less…
It’s wild how something as simple as water—something we take for granted every day—can play such a critical role in managing a complex disease like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). As a Rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve sat across from patients who were surprised to hear me emphasize hydration right alongside…
If you’ve been navigating the rollercoaster ride of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you’ve probably wondered more than once, “Is my food making this worse?” As a Rheumatology nurse practitioner, I’ve had more patients ask me about foods that trigger RA flares than almost anything else. And let me tell you—diet can absolutely make a difference. The…
It’s something I’ve seen again and again in my clinic—women, often in their 30s to 50s, coming in with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), only to reveal they’ve recently gone through a major hormonal shift. Whether it’s postpartum changes, perimenopause, or even thyroid imbalances, there’s a *clear pattern* I can’t ignore. The RA and hormone…
If you’re living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you probably know all too well the struggle of waking up with stiff, swollen joints that make getting out of bed feel like a challenge. RA and morning swelling relief isn’t just about comfort—it’s about reclaiming your day and your independence. Over the years as a Rheumatology nurse…