Patients’ experiences of managing lifestyle habits following a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis

Objectives: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can reduce their increased risk for cardiovascular diseases and improve symptoms and quality of life with healthy lifestyle habits. This study aimed to explore patients' experiences of managing their lifestyle habits following a diagnosis of RA. Methods: In this qualitative study, 20 patients with RA, 14 women, and 6 men, were included. Individual semistructured interviews were conducted, and a qualitative content analysis resulted in 7 subcategories and 3 categories. Results: Patients' experiences of managing lifestyle habits following a diagnosis of RA included perceived barriers, strategies, and benefits associated with adopting a healthy lifestyle. Barriers were described in relation to pain, impaired function, and feelings of being overwhelmed by a new diagnosis. Strategies were shaped by newly acquired knowledge and positive experiences that served as sources of motivation. The benefits of healthy lifestyle habits were linked to enhanced physical and psychological well-being and improved RA management. Conclusions: This study shows that patients following an RA diagnosis experience not only barriers to adopting a healthy lifestyle, but also strategies and benefits that support healthy lifestyle changes.