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Resources
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Ask Dr. Twaddle |
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The pain from my rheumatoid arthritis and other health problems interferes with my daily life. What is available for my pain and where can I go for help?
Chronic pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis or other chronic illnesses can interfere with living a productive and full life, but it certainly doesn’t have to. There are options and resources available for managing persistent pain and symptoms that affect quality of life.
Unfortunately, in many healthcare settings, chronic pain tends to be under treated and the emotional, psychological and spiritual ramifications of pain are often not addressed at all. Many people with chronic illness or pain have to limit their lives and stop doing some of the things that give their life meaning. What many people don’t know is that living with untreated pain and discomfort leads to social withdrawal, isolation and depression and can make health conditions get worse.
Palliative medicine specialists can help with chronic pain and symptom management. Just as rheumatologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, palliative care experts specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of pain and symptoms caused by chronic, serious or life-limiting illnesses.
A palliative care consultation team can work with your primary care physician or specialist to recommend a medication or another form of therapy to alleviate pain or symptoms you might be experiencing. The team may also suggest counseling or support for emotional or social concerns that can interfere with daily living. The goal of palliative care is to help people facing illness or age-related infirmities feel better and function well, so they can continue to enjoy a good quality of life.
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