Is arthritis chronic?
Arthritis is a chronic disease. The symptoms usually can be controlled, but for many people the disease remains. Being told you have a condition that’s not likely to disappear can be a shock at first, and the information may be hard to believe and accept. Daily treatment is necessary to keep symptoms under control. For example, doctors often advise people with arthritis to take medication and to rest and exercise daily, even when they feel well. Arthritis treatment may require changes in routine ways of living, such as scheduling time to exercise and rest. These changes can be difficult to accept. Some people try to ignore the fact that arthritis is chronic, and they avoid parts of their recommended treatment. Allowing arthritis to go untreated can result in additional damage to the body. Credits Some of this material may also be available in an Arthritis Foundation brochure. Contact the Washington/Alaska Chapter Helpline: (800) 542-0295. If dialing from outside of WA and AK, contact t
