Better Health & Living
Posts tagged Arthritis
Osteoarthritis
May 1st
While there is no definitive “cure” for Osteoarthritis, there are ways in which individuals can improve their quality of life and change the discomfort level to one that can be tolerated on a daily basis.
There are currently more than 100 different forms of arthritis, which Osteoarthritis is just one of. But, because it is one of the most common forms many people suffer from it is important to know all the facts associated to be sure that you are not someone that is, or could suffer from Osteoarthritis without clue number one of what to do or how to handle it.
Osteoarthritis, otherwise known as “degenerative joint disease”, is one of the most common forms of arthritis with more than 20 million American sufferers to date.
While most people that suffer from the most severe forms of Osteoarthritis are age 60 or higher, this particular disease begins it’s disabling affects before then. As stated earlier, it is a “degenerative” disease, therefore it’s effects to our bodies happen over a span of a lifetime. However, some people as young as 25 can experience the same pain as someone 65 in age.
The word “Osteoarthritis” is derived from two words standing for joint and inflammation. So it’s easy to see how this disease operates within the human body. If not, let’s delve a little deeper and expand upon the definition.
At each point where are bodies have the ability to bend, or the joints, our bones come together divided by small areas that are made up of cartilage. The cartilage acts as a connection point between our bones providing us with a wider range of motion that would not be possible without it. We could not walk, bend, sit, or twist. We would be pretty much motionless without the ever important cartilage.
As we age, our cartilage becomes weakened since it is in a state of perpetual use day after day. And, the weaker it becomes, the more prone our “meeting place” bones are to begin rubbing as we bend our arms or legs causing more and more pain.
The break down, or “wear-and-tear”, of our cartilage can cause the joint area to change its original shape. When this happens, tiny deposits of bone can form throughout the edges of the joint. These are medically classified as “osteophytes”, but you may know them better as “bone spurs”.
In addition, small bits of cartilage or bone can break off inside the joints that float about often times causing even more damage, and of course more pain.
Wherever we can pivot our bodies, we can develop Osteoarthritis. Hands, knees, hips, and the spine are the most common places this disease occurs. Osteoarthritis only affects the joint areas making it painful when performing many simply, daily tasks such as standing, sitting, shaking hands, or walking. Other forms of arthritis such as rheumatoid (the second most common form of arthritis) or lupus affect areas such as the skin, lungs, eyes, liver, or blood vessels.
Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease. Meaning, it develops without any specific reason and continues for lengthy time periods spanning years, even a lifetime. There is no known cure for Osteoarthritis, but there are treatment plans that can lessen the severity of its symptoms for sufferers.
And, because Osteoarthritis has been termed “chronic”, the treatment plans may change over the course of time. Some of the available treatments will be outlined further on so you know what can be done to help deal with the every day pain.
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Treatment for Arthritis
Apr 9th
Arthritis is a chronic condition involving inflammation, pain and swelling of joints and the surrounding structures. There 
are numerous types of arthritis. The arthritis attacks usually have a tendency to recur. So identifying the trigger factors and avoiding them plays an important role in the management of arthritis. There is no permanent cure for arthritis. Treatment is targeted at symptomatic relief and prevention of further complications.
Maintaining a healthy diet plays an important role in the management of arthritis
Healthy diet is necessary in the management of arthritis. Attacks of gout are brought about by excessive intake of purine rich foods like liver, anchovies, tomatoes and peas. It is important to avoid these trigger factors. Excessive consumption of alcohol and episodes of binge drinking may lead to attacks of gout and other types of arthritis. So it is important to avoid alcohol or consume in moderation. Obese people are at a high risk of developing osteoarthritis. Hence it is important to maintain a healthy weight.
Experts recommend that one should have at least five servings of vegetables and at least two servings of fruit in the diet regularly. Fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber and vitamins. They keep the body fuller for longer thereby avoiding the extra cravings.
One should replace the fizzy sugary drinks and colas with water. These drinks are high in their sugar content and caffeine. They provide empty calories and contribute to an unhealthy weight gain. Experts have suggested drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily. Drinking water keeps the body hydrated and helps to maintain an adequate fluid balance in the body. Attacks of gout are usually preceded by dehydration.
Regular exercise is necessary in the long term management of arthritis
Regular exercise is important to maintain the overall fitness levels of an individual .Health professional have suggested that walking is the best exercise. Walking regularly for 30 to 45 minutes a day gives a great workout to the body. Other exercises like swimming, cycling and aerobics can also be practiced regularly. Exercise is important to maintain a healthy body weight. People suffering from fibromyalgia need to consult their doctor before taking up any new exercise regimen as their symptoms are aggravated by strenuous exercise. Health professionals usually recommend them gentle exercises or low impact water based exercises.
Alternative therapies like yoga and tai chi may be helpful
There are many alternative therapies like yoga, clinical pilates and tai chi. These therapies include stretching and breathing exercises which help in relaxing the body and reducing the body stiffness. They can also help in relieving the chronic joint pain and muscle weakness. Many people have reported that these therapies teach the affected individuals certain techniques that help in reducing the joint stiffness and provide a better joint mobility. These exercises should be taken up after proper consultation with the doctor and must be practiced under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
Medication
Medication is used by doctors to reduce swelling, inflammation and joint pain during acute attacks of arthritis. Get More Information on JointEase Plus to reduce pain for Arthritis and Fibromyalgia.
Symptoms of Arthritis
Apr 8th
Arthritis is defined as the inflammation of a joint and its surrounding structure such as tendons, ligaments and the joint cartilage. It is usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and stiffness and restricted joint mobility. Arthritis is a terminology that is used to define a number of other musculoskeletal conditions. Hence symptoms of arthritis vary greatly according to the type of arthritis. Some of the common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, fibromyalgia, scleroderma and septic arthritis. Below is a list of their symptoms.
Osteoarthritis
The symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness and inflammation of the joint. There are bony growths around the joint causing stiffness and restricted mobility. The joints more prone to be affected by osteoarthritis are the large weight bearing joints such as hips and the knees. But it is also known to affect the lumbar spine.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include pain and swelling of the joints. The attack of rheumatoid arthritis may be preceded by a viral infection. The person suffering from this condition may also experience stiffness of the joints. The stiffness of the joints is worse in the morning. The joints that are usually affected by this condition are the small joints like the joints of the fingers and the toes, and the elbow joint. The joints of both the sides of the body are affected at the same time. The affected individual may also complain of persistent fatigue and weak muscles.
Gout
Gout attacks have a tendency to recur. It might be a several months before gout strikes again. But without proper management, the attacks will become more frequent and more intense over a period of time. Gout attack is usually sudden and it happens overnight. In some cases a gout attack is preceded by a night of binge drinking or an injury. The most common site of gout attack is the big toe. Gout may affect other joints as well like ankles, knees, wrists, fingers and elbows. The joints are swollen, red and inflamed. There is restricted mobility. The person experiences extreme pain that is aggravated by the slightest touch like the touch of bed clothes.
There is intense pain in the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments. This pain can often be described as an aching in the bones. People affected by this condition often report a worn down feeling as if the joints are overworked. In some cases burning pain may be present in the joints.
The pain is associated with stiffness of joints and extreme fatigue. Some people suffering from fibromyalgia may report a tingling sensation or numbness in the arms and the legs. The intense pain and fatigue may lead to difficulty in falling asleep and difficulty in staying asleep for a long time.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
In This type of arthritis the joints of the spine are affected. Symptoms include back pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. People suffering from this condition often complain of difficulty in walking, standing up from a sitting position and back stiffness. The persons suffering from this condition may also have a poor posture as standing upright may be uncomfortable.
Scleroderma
The skin becomes hard due to excessive formation of collagen. The disease affects the joints, blood vessels and skin.
Get More Information on JointEase Plus for Arthritis and Fibromyalgia.
Causes of Arthritis
Apr 8th
Arthritis is defined as inflammation of the joints and the surrounding structures resulting in pain, swelling, stiffness and 
restricted joint mobility. Arthritis is a medical terminology that is used to encompass numerous medical conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. There are numerous types of arthritis. The causes of arthritis differ according to the types of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis involves wear and tear of the joint cartilage
Osteoarthritis is caused by sports injuries or any physical trauma involving injury to the joints.
Increasing age and obesity are also considered as the common risk factors in the development of osteoarthritis. Obesity puts increasing pressure on the joint cartilage leading to wear and tear of the joint. Osteoarthritis is known to run in families.
Gout is characterized by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood stream
Gout is a type of arthritis in which there are elevated levels of uric acid in the blood stream. The excess amount of uric acid when deposits in the joints it causes swelling and inflammation along with intense pain. What causes gout is yet to be determined. However, certain risk factors like family history and genetic predisposition play an important role in the development of gout. The onset of gout is also triggered by other factors like excessive consumption of purine rich foods such as liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas. Excessive consumption of alcohol and episodes of binge drinking can also lead to an attack of gout. Other conditions that lead to fluid imbalance in the body like fasting, starvation and dehydration can also trigger the onset of gout.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an auto immune disorder
Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of auto immune disorder in which the body cells are attacked by its own immune system and destroyed. The exact causes of rheumatoid arthritis are not yet known. Experts have suggested certain risk factors like genetic factors and environmental factors like bacterial and viral infections may be linked to the onset of this disease.
Psoriatic Arthritis affects people with psoriasis
Psoriatic arthritis occurs in people who are affected by a skin disease called psoriasis. There is inflammation and swelling of joints in the affected person along with symptoms of psoriasis. Studies have linked this disease to a number of causes like genetic, immune and environmental.
Septic Arthritis is caused due to infection of joint
Septic arthritis is caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi. The most common culprits are bacteria such as staphylococcus aureus and haemophilus influenza. It is characterized by purulent inflammation of the joint. People at risk of developing septic arthritis are those who take medications to suppress the immune system, or those indulging in intravenous drug abuse. It is also associated with diabetes and other underlying medical disorders.
Ankylosing Spondylitis may be caused due to genetic involvement
The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not yet known, but studies have suggested that genetic factors may play a role in the development of this disease.
What is Arthritis
Apr 7th
Arthritis is often referred to as a single disease. Arthritis is a medical terminology that is used to encompass numerous medical conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, specifically joints where two or more bones meet.
Arthritis is defined as the inflammation of a joint and it is usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and stiffness and restricted joint mobility. The symptoms of arthritis can develop gradually or suddenly, and some rheumatologic conditions also involve the immune system and various internal organs of the body. Arthritis may be triggered as a result of infection, trauma, degenerative changes, metabolic disturbances, or other causes.
Arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions play a significant role in affecting the quality of life of people around the globe. These conditions are major contributors to illness, chronic pain and disability in individuals worldwide. Arthritis is one of the highly prevalent diseases and it places a significant burden on the workforce due to disruptions in daily life and loss of productivity.
Risk Factors in the development of Arthritis
There is a common myth that arthritis usually affects the elderly population. This is simply not true. Arthritis can affect anyone at any age. Arthritis affects people from all ethnic backgrounds and nationalities. According to clinical research, there are certain risk factors that may trigger the onset of arthritis. These factors include family history, genetic predisposition and infections. Other risk factors in the development of arthritis include previous trauma, sports injuries and obesity. Arthritis is more common in women than in men. However, certain types of arthritis like gout are found to be 10 times more common in men than in women.
Different forms of Arthritis
Arthritis is a term that is used to describe numerous musculoskeletal conditions. However, the most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The term arthritis is also used to describe other diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia, systemic lupus erythematous and scleroderma.
Arthritis can significantly affect the quality of life of an individual
Arthritis causes pain, stiffness, inflammation and damage to joints. It affects the neighboring structures like the muscles, tissues, ligaments and the joint cartilage which is a protective covering surrounding the joint. This results in further complications and deformities in the person suffering from arthritis. The mobility of the joint is hampered or restricted over a period of time. Even the most simple and basic tasks like walking, driving a car, holding things, sitting and waking up from bed can cause considerable pain and restriction.
Diagnosis of Arthritis
Arthritis is diagnosed by the doctor on the basis of symptomatic evaluation, clinical assessments, blood and urine tests, x-rays and other imaging tests.
There is no permanent cure for arthritis. The treatment of arthritis is mainly targeted at relief from symptoms like pain, stiffness and restricted movements. The treatment is also focused on identifying the trigger factors and trying to prevent them. With proper management and treatment there can be considerable improvement in the quality of life of the affected person.
Cure for Gout
Mar 24th
Gout occurs when there are abnormally elevated levels of uric acid in the blood and tissues. Uric acid is one of the waste products of the body. Normal values of uric acid range from 250 to 750 milligrams per 24 hours. This is a common and painful condition that affects the joints. Small crystals form in and around the joint, causing inflammation, pain and swelling.
Treatment for gout
There is no permanent cure for gout. Gout usually has a tendency to recur. It might be a several months before gout strikes again. But without proper management, the attacks will become more frequent and more intense over a period of time. Treatment of gout is targeted at pain relief during an acute attack of gout, management of symptoms in order to prevent further attacks and t prevent complications like formation of tophi or permanent joint destruction. Treatment of gout is based on a few guidelines as follows:
Use of medicines to reduce the pain and swelling of joints
During an attack of gout there is intense pain and swelling of joints. The joints are red and inflamed. The pain in the joints can be so intense that slightest touch can cause aggravation of the pain. During an attack of gout, NSAIDS or non steroid anti inflammatory drugs is the first line of treatment. NSAIDS are initially prescribed at maximum dosage and reduced as symptoms subside. The doctor may also prescribe corticosteroids to some patients who cannot take NSAIDS. The physician may also prescribe pain killers as the person suffers intense pan during a gout attack.
Avoid the intake of purine rich foods
Foods such as liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas and tomatoes are high in their purine content. Excessive consumption of these foods causes elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. This leads to a gout attack. Hence a person who suffers from this condition must avoid the intake of purine rich foods.
Treat high blood pressure
Gout attacks are often associated with high blood pressure. Hence maintaining blood pressure within the normal range is necessary to prevent a gout attacks.
Treat associated symptoms like kidney stones
Increased levels of uric acid often lead to formation of kidney stones. Hence it is important to treat the associated symptoms.
Avoid or cut down on alcohol intake
Gout attacks are linked to heavy drinking. Alcoholic drinks like beer and wine are high in their purine content. Hence it is important to avoid alcohol completely during an attack of gout.
Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day
It is important for a person suffering from gout t maintain adequate fluid levels in the body. Dehydration causes fluid imbalance in the body and may lead to a gout attack. Hence people affected by gout must drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily and avoid being dehydrated.
Regular exercise is necessary for weight control
Obese people are at an increased risk of suffering from a gout attack. Hence these people must exercise regularly in order to maintain a healthy body weight.
Causes of Gout
Mar 24th
Gout is a common form of arthritis. Elevated levels of uric acid lead to a condition called hyperuricemia. When the excess amount of uric acid accumulates in the joints it leads to painful selling, redness and inflammation of the joints. This condition is called as gout.
Gout commonly affects people in their 40s and 50s. It is more common in men than in women.
Hereditary factors play a major role in the elevated levels of uric acid
Gout usually runs in families. People affected by gout are genetically predisposed to have increased levels of uric acid. Often it is found that people suffering from gout have a sibling or a close relative with high levels of uric acid in the body.
Heavy drinking has been linked to a gout attack
Heavy consumption of alcohol is often associated with increased levels of uric acid in the body. A gout attack is often brought on by a night of binge drinking or heavy alcohol intake.
Diuretics lead to increase in uric acid levels
Medicines like diuretics are also linked to increased levels of uric acid in the blood. Diuretics may interfere with function of the kidneys. This affects the elimination if the uric acid from the body. As a result there are elevated levels of uric acid in the blood and this may lead to gout attack.Other medicines like aspirin and niacin may also be linked to gout attacks.
Heavy intake of purine rich foods may lead to the onset of a gout attack
There are certain substances called purines in the body. Purines are DNA building blocks derived from protein. Purines are also found in some foods and drinks, such as liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas, beer, and wine. When the body breaks down these purines it leads to the formation of a uric acid. From the kidneys uric acid is eliminated from the body via urine. If the body produces excess amount of uric acid as a result of heavy consumption of purine rich foods then the kidneys are unable to eliminate all the uric acid from the body. This results in a buildup of the uric acid in the blood stream. Gradually the excess uric acid precipitates in the joints and leads to the attack of gout.
Obesity may be a high risk factor for the development of a gout attack
Obese people are at an increased risk of suffering from a gout attack.
Injury may lead to the onset of a gout attack
Injury to a joint especially the big toe may also be a triggering factor for the development of a gout attack.
Excessive starvation may cause increased levels of uric acid in the body
Sudden starvation may lead to elevated levels of uric acid in the body. A gout attack is often brought on after episodes of sudden starvation or fasting.
Dehydration may lead to the development of gout attack
Dehydration causes fluid imbalance in the body and may lead to a gout attack.
What is Gout?
Mar 22nd
Gout is a common type of arthritis. Gout occurs when there are abnormally elevated levels of uric acid in the blood and 
tissues. Uric acid is one of the waste products of the body. Normal values of uric acid range from 250 to 750 milligrams per 24 hours. This is a common and painful condition that affects the joints. Small crystals form in and around the joint, causing inflammation, pain and swelling.
What is uric acid?
There are certain substances called purines in the body. Purines are DNA building blocks derived from protein. Purines are also found in some foods and drinks, such as liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas, beer, and wine. When the body breaks down these purines it leads to the formation of a chemical called uric acid. Most of the uric acid dissolves in blood and travels to the kidneys. From the kidneys uric acid is eliminated from the body via urine. If the body produces excess amount of uric acid or if the body is unable to eliminate the excess amount of uric acid then it leads to abnormally elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. High levels of uric acid in the body lead to a condition called hyperuricemia. This condition does not present any symptoms of arthritis. When uric acid precipitates in a joint (often the big toe) it causes an acute arthritis.
Incidence of Gout
This condition commonly affects men. The age group that is most likely to show symptoms of gout is the middle age group. It is also found in upper classes of the society. Developed countries have a higher incidence of gout.
Symptoms of Gout
An attack of gout happens suddenly, often overnight. The most common site for gout attacks is the big toe, but gout may affect other joints as well like ankles, knees, wrists, fingers and elbows. The symptoms of gout include sudden and intense pain in the affected joints. The joints have a swollen, red and inflamed appearance. The pain in the joints can be so intense that slightest touch can cause aggravation of the pain. The joints are warm to touch and cause considerable restrictions in mobility. In some cases the symptoms of gout can also be accompanied by fever.
Without treatment, the symptoms of a gout attack can subside within a week. Gout usually has a tendency to recur. It might be a several months before gout strikes again. But without proper management, the attacks will become more frequent and more intense over a period of time. These attacks can affect other joints. A joint might be permanently damaged by recurring attacks of gout, and may develop osteoarthritis. Uric acid can also lodge in surrounding tissues. In many cases, people suffering from gout often complain of kidney stones or stones in the bladder. This is again linked to the increased levels of uric acid in the body.
Diagnosis of Gout
Gout is diagnosed with the help of blood tests. Blood tests are used to measure the auric acid levels. Increased levels of uric acid along with the associated symptoms confirm the diagnosis of gout.
