Newly Diagnosed with Arthritis - What can I do?

Learn more about your disease

• Arthritis is a chronic disease. There is no cure at this time. Learning to live with your chronic conditions means learning what resources are available to help you self manage your condition. Learn what resources are available to help you manage your condition. When you are diagnosed early and begin early treatment, you can take control of your disease
• Be sure to clarify your diagnosis with your physician. There are over 100 types of arthritis and treatments are different for each type of arthritis
• You can contact the Arthritis Answers Line [1]. Trained volunteers with arthritis are available Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. They can answer your questions, provide emotional support or send you information upon request
• You can Email for more information at info@bc.arthritis.ca [2] or Visit The Arthritis Society website at www.arthritis.ca/bc [3]
• You can refer to Education Programs & Resources [3] for more information on education programs, arthritis resources such as Community Groups [3], Consumer Organizations [3], books, videos, website, Research Opportunities [3] and participation
• You can register with The Arthritis Society Registry [4]. Arthritis Updates will be sent to you regularly to keep you informed of the latest research findings, new medications and treatment protocols.

Take an active role as a partner with your health care team

• You can take an active role by learning self-management strategies. These include: participating in regular exercise, taking medications as prescribed, eating a healthy diet, stopping smoking, reducing stress and depression and getting proper rest. Work toward meeting self-management and lifestyle goals
• If you can, participate in a self-management program, as you will learn strategies to help you live with this chronic condition. You can register for Arthritis Self-Management Program [4] or you can register for Chronic Disease Self-management Program [4]
• Tell your doctor if your arthritis is causing problems with sexual functioning or if you are thinking of becoming pregnant
• Talk to your doctor or call if you have concerns with your diagnosis or the social and emotional changes caused by arthritis. Social workers can help you regain a sense of control over your life. A social worker can be contacted by phone at 604.875.4111 extension 68812. This service is available for any person with arthritis in BC. No referral is required. For more information, click here on Social Work & Counseling [4]
• Talk to your doctor if you need advice on nutrition and exercise as referrals to other health professionals may be required. For more information, click here for Diet & Nutrition [4], and Exercise [4]

Learn more about your medications

• Take your medications as prescribed even when you are feeling better
• Learn about the possible side effects of medications, especially NSAIDS (Non-Steriodal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs). Download a copy of the Consumers Guide to Arthritis Medications [5]
• Learn the importance of using non-drug strategies concurrently with medication therapy and learn the expected benefits of therapy

If you need more information on how to Manage a Flare-Up – click here [5]

Learn more General Tips for Managing Arthritis [5]

Learn more Specific Tips for Managing OA [5]
To know more about OA, here are some Frequently Asked Questions - OA [5]
To know some of the Myths and Facts about OA [5]

Learn more Specific Tips for Managing RA [5]
To know more about RA, here are some Frequently Asked Questions - RA [5]
To know some of the Myths and Facts about RA [5]

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