Relationships and family
Relationships can feel the strain when you are struggling
with pain, fatigue and mobility relating to arthritis. A lot of
these symptoms are invisible and because of this many people don't
talk about their symptoms because they think that others won't
understand. This can cause anger and frustration over the impact
arthritis has on their lives and the lack of help and understanding
from others which can make symptoms such as fatigue and pain
worse.
Family and friends can help you manage your arthritis, but
they won't know about it unless you tell them. Sharing the effects
of arthritis with others helps them to understand why you don't
always feel able to join in activities or must take more time to
rest.
It can also be helpful to explain your arthritis to your
colleagues. This will help them to understand that you sometimes
need to take more time over tasks.
Relationships, Sex and Arthritis
This comprehensive booklet can be downloaded or ordered
from NRAS as a hard copy.
https://www.nras.org.uk/emotions-relationships-and-sexuality-booklet
https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/living-with-arthritis/sex-and-relationships
Conception, Pregnancy and Parenthood
If you are considering starting a family, please discuss
with your Rheumatology Consultant who will be able to advise you
and make appropriate changes to your management plan. Some
medications may need to be switched to those that are safe in
pregnancy and breastfeeding in advance. Your consultant can also
discuss things with you if you are male and hoping to conceive with
your partner. It is good to start these discussions a year to
six months before you start trying to conceive if
possible.
In certain cases, your Rheumatologist may also refer you
onto a Medical Obstetrician who is a doctor who specialises in
supporting women with more complicated medical conditions before,
during and after pregnancy, including any further screening tests
and medications you may need.
Occupational Therapy can help you to overcome difficulties
such as managing and handling a newborn baby, or younger children
by making splints. Occupational therapy can help you address issues
such as pacing activities with a hectic family life.
https://www.nras.org.uk/pregnancy-and-parenthood
https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/living-with-arthritis/pregnancy/
