What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a painful condition that afflicts many people of all ages; you probably know someone who has it, or you may suffer from it yourself. You might not know, however, that there are actually a number of different kinds of arthritis. In fact, over 100 forms of the disease have been identified. They all have something in common, however. Arthritis is a cluster of conditions that attack and damage the body’s joints.
Here we’ll take a look at three of the most common forms of the disease and how they can affect you.The most prevalent type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition that develops as a consequence of undue stress on the joints, an infection of the joints, or sometimes as a result of the normal aging process. Osteoarthritis impacts the joints by reducing the amount of cartilage in the bones. As it attacks the cartilage, the bones attempt to repair themselves. The bone then takes on a new shape and, throughout the process, a painful bone cyst is formed.
Osteoarthritis has a number of symptoms which you should be aware of. If you experience any sort of inflexibility when moving a joint and it results in pain, then you need to pay a visit to your health care provider as this could be an early indication of osteoarthritis. The joints which are most frequently attacked by osteoarthritis are the knees, hips, spine and fingers.
Rheumatoid arthritis is another form of the disease which results in serious inflammation of the joints. It sometimes attacks certain organs in the body as well, thus triggering your immune system to mistakenly attack its own tissue. The technical term for this form of disease is “autoimmune,” wherein antibodies in the blood target your own body. Typically, if your immune system attacks itself, inflammation takes place.
The primary indication of rheumatoid arthritis is swelling and irritation of at least one of your joints. Other warning signs include loss of appetite, tiredness, lack of energy, fever, and joint stiffness. Most people find that the stiffness is most noticeable during the early hours of the day. Joints can also become reddened and tender whenever symptoms flare up. Fortunately, even though rheumatoid arthritis is classified as a chronic disease, lots of people enjoy extended periods of time during which they have no uncomfortable symptoms.
Finally, there is psoriatic arthritis, generally referred to as psoriatic arthritis autoimmune disease (PSAAD). Its name comes from the skin condition known as psoriasis. Similar to rheumatoid arthritis, it is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks itself; however, psoriatic arthritis attacks the skin in addition to the joints. The primary symptoms of this condition are inflamed and itchy patches on the skin. These patches sometimes become scaly or flaky. Psoriasis most frequently appears on the knees, elbows, genitals and scalp. Generally, people who experience joint inflammation together with psoriasis are diagnosed as suffering from psoriatic arthritis.
There are different types of arthritis. It could affect the spine, the big toe (called gout), septic arthritis, when there is bacterial infection, and juvenile arthritis, when it affects children. Sad to say, one out of three adult Americans suffer from this disease and three quarters of these are women.
Is there an arthritis natural remedy?
Can we find a cure in nature when it comes to the treatment of arthritis?
The treatment of arthritis should begin with a good diet: a diet that keeps the bones well-oiled. So make sure you eat right. You can take preventive action by having enough Calcium as well as Vitamins C and D. Iron, too is used in the treatment of arthritis to make a person’s bone marrow healthier. Together with that, it is essential, if you want the treatment of arthritis to have positive results, to lose weight. Any loss of weight goes toward making the treatment of arthritis more successful.
Learn to say No to junk foods as they add on empty calories. Steering clear of tea, coffee and alcohol also helps. Try the Omega 3 treatment of arthritis. Fish and foods which are rich in this nutrient tend to ‘oil’ the joints and reduce the pain.
And of course, don’t forget to add an exercise regime to the list of arthritis treatments. Go for a brisk walk every day. When you get up every morning, s-t-r-e-t-c-h like a cat, slowly and till you feel the muscles pull without hurting. Any treatment of arthritis will focus on the problem areas like the knees, ankles, elbows and wrists. Losing weight is, of course very important.
One study found that women who were obese and lost more than 11 lbs over 10 years decreased the incidence of osteoarthritis of the knees by up to 50%. However, many people over 50 tend to sit back and not bother to stay in shape, which is why there are perhaps so many cases of arthritis today and the treatment of arthritis has become such big business. It really is never too late to start and if preventive steps are not taken, the treatment of arthritis later will be much more difficult – and expensive.
Opting For Natural Osteoarthritis Treatment
Before looking for suitable osteoarthritis treatment options it pays to understand the common risk factors associated with this disease and these risk factors include being obese or very heavy. In addition, they include injuries, hormones and even certain kinds of careers can lead to developing osteoarthritis. Of course, your genes can also cause this disease and weakened thigh muscles too play their part in the development of this disease.
Depending on the kind of osteoarthritis symptoms you notice you will need to find appropriate osteoarthritis treatment methods. So, in case you have inflammation of the joints you would find that the swelling and pain and redness require certain special osteoarthritis treatments. In fact, if you choose natural osteoarthritis treatment methods you stand as good a chance of getting arthritis relief as you would by using medications while at the same time you will not need to worry about side effects that so commonly plagues people that take medications to get relief.
One of the better osteoarthritis treatment options, Pycnogenol has been found to be a very effective osteoarthritis treatment option as it has been found that Pycnogenol supplementation can inhibit the production of enzymes that cause pain that occurs on account of inflammation which almost affects people suffering from osteoarthritis.
The best source for this natural osteoarthritis treatment option is of course a natural supplement known as Isontonix OPC-3 that is derived from grape seed, bilberry and red wine and also from pine bark extract as too citrus extract all of which help with osteoarthritis treatment.
It pays to understand what the common symptoms of osteoarthritis are and in fact according to medical studies conducted on finding out more about the different symptoms of osteoarthritis it has been found that an infection of the joints or trauma to a persons joints as well as old age all lead to occurrence of one or more symptom of osteoarthritis.
Watching Out For Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
Arthritis that involves children
Pain in some of the joints
One of the very common juvenile rheumatoid arthritis symptoms is pain in some of the joints. Pain in the joint is often accompanied by swelling in the joint and stiffness in the area. Parents have to be vigilant regarding this symptom since it may be taken for granted by some children or may not seem as uncomfortable enough for them to report it to their parents. The pain and stiffness may not be easy to detect by the eye but the swelling is. Usually the swollen area is also red and tender. Some children actually cannot move the affected joint and may hold this joint stiffly due to the pain or may have limited nobility in the area of the affected joint. Loss of joint mobility is a common juvenile rheumatoid arthritis symptom.
Limp
Another part of the short list of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis symptoms is a limp. Many children who have slight pains and aches sometimes endure them in favor of playing. The limp may be pronounced if the effect of the juvenile rheumatoid arthritis symptoms is severe. While this is an indicator that something is wrong with the legs of the child, it is also a very common symptom of many other conditions and may even indicate an injury which is not related to juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Bouts of recurring fever
Other juvenile rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are bouts of recurring fever, inflammation in the eyes, a salmon colored rash on the skin, joint deformity and rheumatoid nodules in pressure points. The fever that usually occurs is high and may also disappear without using any medication. The eyes may appear swollen or reddish especially around the iris. The rash that may occur is a very light salmon color that may appear and disappear randomly on any area of the body. Joint deformity and rheumatoid nodules are very clear juvenile rheumatoid arthritis symptoms that can be visually evident.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Causes And Remedies
One common kind of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, in which the body launches an attack on its own joints. Like the less common psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, in which the body’s immune system goes haywire. Swelling of the joints, stiffness, pain and redness are among the well-known rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. It can also lead to the lining of the joints becoming thickened and in more advanced cases it can result in limited mobility.
Other Forms of Arthritis
On the other hand, an infection of the joints can lead to septic arthritis. Gouty arthritis arises when the body is unable to excrete uric acid, and the uric acid is deposited in the form of urate crystals in the joints.
The most common arthritic condition, however, is osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative disease of the joints that can often occur after trauma or hard impact to the joints. Osteoarthritis is also common among the aged.
Along this note, arthritis is also common as a secondary disease, or as the result of the presence of other diseases. For instance, systemic lupus erythematosus can lead to arthritis, as can hepatitis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Arthritis is common not only to humans. Feline arthritis and canine rheumatoid arthritis are also common, especially in large, heavy breeds of pets that have joints that need to support heavier bodies and bones. Some pet stores even carry arthritis medicine for dogs in order to meet the needs of the joints of mans best friend.
How Arthritis is Diagnosed and Treated
Because many different diseases can mimic the effects of arthritis, doctors are very careful about making any rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis without conducting a battery of tests first. Doctors begin by taking a careful and thorough review of the patients medical history. This can include questions that take into account the history of the joint pain, when it started, what joints are involved, how long the pain lasts, and what often triggers the pain.
The doctor can then move on to a physical examination, which can confirm arthritis. X-rays are then taken to look at the extent of damage, and to see how far the disease has progressed.
Blood tests are also taken to confirm the diagnosis. Doctors will search for certain antibodies and factors that can point to arthritis. Once a diagnosis is made, doctors can prescribe methods for arthritis pain treatment. Treatment often includes physical therapy as a method to keep joints and muscles toned and working, and as an arthritis pain reliever. Doctors will often prescribe medication in order to keep the pain at a tolerable level.
Because uric acid crystals contribute to the pain and exacerbate the arthritic condition in gouty patients, such patients may be prescribed arthritis diets that will require patients to avoid high-protein and high-uric acid foods. Some natural arthritis treatments, such as better diets and therapeutic massages, are also common, although they have not yet been subjected to the scrutiny of scientific study. Also popular is the magnetic bracelet for arthritis, which has been claimed to increase circulation to facilitate the return of function to arthritic joints.
Doctors do not normally recommend arthritis natural cures without requesting patients to accompany such treatments with occupational and physical therapy. In extreme cases, doctors may need to carry out joint replacement surgery in order to relieve the more progressive kinds of arthritis. Arthroplasty is not only a painful procedure, it can be expensive, and patients need a long time to recover from it.
Whether patients are after home remedies for arthritis, or the most sophisticated medication to ease the pain brought about by the disease, the subject still needs to be studied in greater detail to find better ways to alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. In addition to this overview of arthritis, do your own research on the disease and what experiments laboratories all over the world are carrying out to help people understand arthritis better.
Finding Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain Relief
There are two main methods of rheumatoid arthritis pain relief. First there is the non medical method and the medical intervention. For there to be substantial relief, both kinds of interventions have been found to be necessary. Rheumatoid arthritis pain relief is not just necessary for making sufferers feel comfortable, it is important because it can help contain the disease. This is because long term effects can be handicaps and other dire problems. Therefore, it is vital to seek professional help even if you are not in grave pain. There are medications available to help slow down the development of the disease.
Cortisone has been seen to be a rheumatoid arthritis pain relief agent. It also works to slow down the inflammation caused by the condition. Those who suffer will need a daily injection of the drug. However, using it for a long time is not advisable because it comes with major side effects. There are other anti-inflammatory drugs that are administered to help with rheumatoid arthritis pain relief as well as inflammation. There are all sorts of drugs available out there but before purchasing a drug, have a doctor prescribe it. Let them advise you on what it best for you. Taking the wrong medication is sure to do you more harm than good.
Non medical rheumatoid arthritis pain relief methods are very useful. They include exercising and taking in the right diet. Heat and cold therapies are very common especially for arthritis back pain relief. Electric stimulation will also be prevalent because it goes a very long way to keep chronic pain at bay. There are many rheumatoid arthritis relief methods. However, you will find that not all will work for you; this is why it is necessary to have a doctor guide you to the best decisions with regard to your health.
Delaying the Onset of Arthritis with Nutrition
The different types of arthritis The word arthritis comes from the Greek word “arthro” which means to join and “itis” meaning “inflammation”. It is not take a degree in classics to work out what is affected by this disease but the knowledge and cures for arthritis are still limited despite the high prevalence. The latest statistics show that one in three adult Americans suffer from some form of arthritis. It is also now clear that more women suffer than men.
There are many types of arthritis with the most common being osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease.Arthritis can also be caused by infections in the joints, as in the case of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Related diseases are Ankylosing spondylitis, a rarer form of the disease affecting the spine, and Gout caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. If there is an increase in bacteria in the joints a person could even suffer from septic arthritis.
Repetitive strain, injuries, overexertion and falls can also cause this disease. The wrists, fingers, knees, feet and ankles are the most commonly affected joints. Children below the age of 16 can have juvenile arthritis. This is a disease that some children are unfortunately predisposed to and it may entail more complex methods of treatment.
The ingredients needed for a better joint health
It is now becoming increasingly evident that good nutrition, along with exercise and the prevention of injuries could help in better joint health. Good nutrition means the right amounts of essential fats, antioxidants, proteins, minerals and carbohydrates. Eating too little or eating the wrong nutrients is as dangerous as over eating. Calcium together with Vitamin C and D prevent cartilage and bone damage. Proper iron intake also keeps the bone marrow healthy.
To ensure enough calcium and a slim waistline it is best to have nonfat or low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese. Many vegetables such as spinach also contain some calcium, as do nuts and soy. Vitamins are rife in all fruits and vegetables so if you are looking for a snack – this is a good bet. Daily exercise early in the morning, preferably outdoors ensures enough Vitamin D, essential for the proper absorption of calcium. Antioxidant nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and beta-carotene can also help prevent certain types of arthritis.
Good nutrition should begin in childhood so that the foundation is laid for a good and strong bone structure. It also means giving up bad habits, the most important being smoking and eating junk food. It is essential to keep a healthy weight. Dieting leads to the loss of nutrients and calcium, while over eating could cause excess pressure on the load bearing joints so a healthy balance is needed!
The joints that are most vulnerable are the hip and knee joints. Any weight reduction over the years helps in preventing arthritis. It is also equally important to try and ensure a life free of injuries. In the case of sports, proper protection must be worn so as not to get injured but don’t let this put you off as exercise is one of the most important factors in leading a healthier life into old age.
How to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of arthritic pain
Keeping the joints “well-oiled” requires a healthy lifestyle including eating, sleeping and exercising well. One of major reasons for arthritis and the lessening of synovial fluid is incorrect diet – too much processed foods, alcohol and meat and very little raw vegetables and fruits. A deficiency of water also causes the lowering of the levels of the synovial fluid. Incorrect diet, lack of exercise, injuries and auto-immune diseases such as lupus could lower the levels of this essential fluid.
Often corrective exercise such as swimming, yoga and muscle strengthening exercises could help keep the joints pain-free. However, the doctor should be consulted before any program is started as rapid increases in exercise can put additional strains on other systems of the body.
Arthritis Natural Cures: Seven Popular Remedies
Arthritis has different types, and each type has its own set of symptoms and complications. But generally, all arthritis patients experience immense pain and stiffness in their bones, muscles, and joints. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout arthritis are the most common types of this disease.
People suffering from arthritis usually go to the doctor for medical assistance. Unless they cant withstand the pains and aches associated to the disease, over-the-counter pain relievers should be good enough. But there are a lot of herbal or natural medicines that can be used to manage arthritis. And here is a list of these arthritis natural cures:
Apple Cider Vinegar
Arthritis patients are requested to take two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar mixed with eight ounces of water three times in a day. It is also believed that soaking the joints affected by arthritis in hot apple cider vinegar solution is also a good way of relieving the pain. To make an apple cider vinegar solution, mix a quarter of a cup of the vinegar into one and a half cups of hot, but not scalding, water. If it is impossible to soak the affected body part into the solution, merely dip a hand towel over it. Wrap the towel over the painful area and keep it there for a few minutes or until the towel becomes cool. Do it several times as necessary.
Shallaki
Shallaki is also known as Boswellia serrata. Clinical trials show promising results when this type of herb was used to treat patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Standardized Boswellia extracts have proven to be helpful in reducing swelling, stiffness, and the pains felt a rheumatoid arthritis patient. Boswellia is a type of herb native in India.
Ginger
Ginger is also a good treatment for arthritis. Root ginger is known to inhibit the production of leukotrienes and prostaglandins. These two are substances that are known to be inflammation and pain agents. In the 1992 Danish clinical study for arthritis cure, all patients who are made to take ginger as a form of medication were able to experience varying degrees of relief from the pains they usually experience with absolutely no side effects.
This group of articles on natural cures include natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, natural remedies for arthritis, natural cure for arthritis, natural arthritis treatments and natural cures for arthritis.
Wildflower
Wildflower, also known as pulsatilla or meadow anemone, is also one of the natural cures for arthritis. And aside from arthritis, this herb is also believed to be an effective remedy for uterine disorders, menstrual cramps, and eye disease. This treatment is prepared from the fresh plant while it is in its flower form.
Withania somniferum
Withania somniferum is also called ashwagandha, which is a plant that belongs to the potato family. This is an Asian plant with unusually long roots. These roots are the ones that can effectively cure rheumatism. Ashwagandha is also referred to as the Indian ginseng. Aside from arthritis, it is known to cure immune system dysfunctions and high blood pressure as well.
Anti-arthritis herbal oils
Arthcare is a good example of these oils. This is a natural type of oil that is applied topically. It can relieve the body of the pains associated with arthritis. Aside from that, it can also clear toxins and even restore the patients mobility. Arthcare is also advertised to strengthen the tissues of the bones, the skeletal system, and the neuromuscular system.
Magnesium sulfate
Magnesium is a natural element that is known to have both anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be absorbed by the skin and is one of the most important minerals needed by the body. Epsom salts contain magnesium sulfate. A hot bath in the Epsom salt solution is a good remedy for arthritis. It can even increase the patients blood circulation.
These are the different natural cures for arthritis. They can be added to the patients diet so that they would experience relief. With them working along your doctors prescribed medicines, living with arthritis becomes easier and better.