Tips for Managing Arthritis in the Wake of a Hurricane

Recent hurricanes have left a path of destruction and devastation that far outweighs expectations. In addition to trying to rebuild your life, you may be trying to manage your arthritis. If you are a hurricane survivor with arthritis, it is important that you maintain your disease management and treatment plan as best you can under these conditions. Stress and fatigue can trigger a flare, making it more difficult to rebuild your life.

With this in mind, the Arthritis Foundation and the American College of Rheumatology are gathering a list of rheumatologists, doctors specializing in the treatment of arthritis and related diseases, who will treat displaced Hurricane Katrina and Rita survivors in their areas. To find a list of participating rheumatologists in your area, please visit your local office Web page.

In the meantime, we offer you the following tips to help manage your arthritis. Our hearts are with you during this terrible time. Please contact your local Arthritis Foundation office for any additional help you may need managing your arthritis.

• Before taking any medications, make sure that they have not gotten wet or contaminated.
• Many medications, including biologics such as Enbrel and Humira, can be received by mail. If you have moved, make sure to call your pharmacy and any other health care provider to change your contact information, including your phone number and address. This will help avoid major interruption in obtaining your medication.
• Make sure you have the ability to store your medication at the correct temperature. Your medication may need to be refrigerated or stored at a certain temperature and could be hazardous if stored otherwise.
• If prednisone is part of your treatment program, you need to obtain a supply as soon as possible. It is dangerous to stop taking certain medications abruptly.
• Maintain your exercise program to the degree that you can. Staying active can decrease stiffness, maintain mobility and improve your general sense of well-being.
• If you are taking a medication that suppresses your immune system, including Enbrel, Humira, Remicade, Cytoxan, Imuran or methotrexate, you could be at risk for infection because of unsanitary living conditions. Steer clear of contaminated food and water sources to avoid infection.
• If you are taking any medications intravenously, such as Remicade or Cytoxan, contact your local Arthritis Foundation office to get in touch with area rheumatologists so that you can continue your treatment program.