Essential Items I Always Carry for Managing RA

Whether you're heading to work, attending classes, or enjoying a night out, having the right essentials can make a world of difference, especially when living with a chronic illness like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Life can be unpredictable, and being prepared often provides a sense of security. Here are the must-have items I never leave home without to help manage my RA effectively.

1. Extra Prescription Medications

I always carry at least one additional day’s worth of my prescription medications. While having a larger supply would be ideal, it’s not always feasible. I find that going even a short time without my medications can leave me feeling unwell, making it crucial to have my medications on hand at all times.

2. Biofreeze

Biofreeze is a staple in my pain management routine. Depending on the severity of my discomfort, this topical pain relief can often be my best ally. I prefer the roll-on version, but I also keep travel-sized packets in my bag, ensuring I can easily apply it whenever needed.

3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

In addition to my prescription medications, I always stock my bag with over-the-counter pain relievers. These are particularly useful when I’m away from home and may need a rapid response to unexpected pain. Being prepared is essential, especially when navigating daily activities with RA.

4. Dual Ice and Heat Pack

I keep a compact dual-use ice and heat pack in my bag. While I don't use it daily, it provides valuable relief during particularly painful days. Its lightweight and small size make it easy to carry, ensuring I have an option for both soothing heat and refreshing cold when I need it most.

5. Medical Alert Bracelet and Health Information

My medical alert bracelet is an important accessory that I wear every day. It serves a practical purpose: to inform others of my health status in case of an emergency. Additionally, I maintain a medical information card in my wallet and a digital profile on my phone, providing vital details such as my medical history and current medications. This setup is especially crucial for me, as I once worried about how my students would respond to an emergency health situation while teaching. Having a clear way to communicate my health needs gives me peace of mind in any setting.

Summary

While I may not be prepared for every possible scenario, carrying these essentials helps me feel ready for most challenges that come with living with RA. The only slight issue? Finding a bag spacious enough to fit everything! However, the weight of carrying these items is a small price to pay for the reassurance they provide.

Leslie Rott, diagnosed with lupus and RA in 2008 during her graduate studies, has since earned a PhD in Sociology and a master's in Health Advocacy. She blogs at Getting Closer to Myself, sharing her honest experiences with multiple chronic illnesses along with a good dose of humor. Residing in Michigan, Leslie works as a professional patient advocate.