Living with a Rheumatologic Condition Make an Appointment Ask a Question Search Conditions Rheumatologic conditions encompass a broad category of inflammatory diseases that can affect the skin, joints, muscles and internal organs. They are usually autoimmune in nature, which means your body is fighting itself. Some of the most common rheumatologic conditions include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and connective tissue disease. Regardless of your specific condition, there are steps you can take to reduce its impact on your life. Your doctor will select a treatment plan that is individualized and may include medication or specific therapy techniques and exercises. Lifestyle changes can make a big difference and include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, minimizing sun exposure and taking supplements such as vitamin C or calcium. Exercise is very important and will likely make you feel better overall. Discuss your lifestyle with your doctor before making any significant changes. Finally, it is important to listen to your body. If you notice excessive or unexplained fatigue, pain, stiffness and especially joint swelling that lasts for more than six weeks, it is time to see your doctor. Some of these changes are easy to accomplish while others are more challenging and may take effort over time. Work closely with your doctor and ask questions about your medications and lifestyle. With some effort, you can manage your rheumatologic condition. Featured Stories Proper Hydration Sarcoidosis: Lifestyle Management Immune Deficiency Disorders: Lifestyle Management Working the Rheum: Tips for Living Better with RA Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease that affects the joints and that can involve many other body parts. You can improve your symptoms by eating right, staying active, getting rest and changing your lifestyle for the better. View Working the Rheum: Tips for Living Better with RA Infographic Rheumatology Care at National Jewish Health At National Jewish Health, you’ll find: The latest clinical trials A focused and integrated approach A therapy plan designed especially for you Nutrition advice from expert dietitians Rehabilitation services, including physical and occupational therapy State-of-the-art technology and expertise. More Living with a Rheumatologic Condition Tips Taking Multivitamins Sodium Dangers Proper Hydration Proper Hydration Bone Health Healthy Snacking Healthy Recipes Medicine Safety Managing Your Medication Supply Stress & Relaxation Plant-Based Diets Maintaining a Healthy Weight 10 Tips for Eating Less Meat Managing Rheumatologic Conditions Healthy Eating 10 Benefits of Staying Hydrated Tips to Improve Health by Increasing Happiness Working the Rheum: Tips for Living Better with RA Understanding Osteoporosis Exercise & Weight Sarcoidosis: Lifestyle Management Rheumatoid Arthritis: Lifestyle Management Rheumatoid Arthritis: Diet and Pain Lupus: Lifestyle Management Immune Deficiency Disorders: Lifestyle Management What Puts Men at Risk for Osteoporosis You may also be interested in... Learning About Osteoporosis Class Living with Chronic Disease Class Managing Your Energy Everyday Class Supporting Each Other Together Support Group