At-Work Stress May Raise Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk

New research shows that on-the-job stress may boost your risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

For the study, researchers surveyed 1,221 RA patients and 1,454 people without the disease, all of whom were aged 18 to 65. Results revealed that job strain was associated with a 30 percent higher risk of RA, when compared with relaxed working conditions. The study's authors defined "job strain" as a combination of high psychological demands and a low level of control at work.

For help in coping with at-work stress, consider incorporating a stress-reducing practice (such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing) into your daily routine.

Although there is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, using certain natural remedies (including supplements of omega-3 fatty acids or the herb devil's claw) may help manage the condition when used in conjunction with standard care.