the importance of getting early treatment for Rheumatoid arthritis pain and inflammation.

 When diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, many patients instinctively prepare for a life filled with pain. Yes, this may be true in some cases. However, a growing number of rheumatologists now believe that this form of arthritis can literally be stopped in its tracks. According to the popular Arthritis Today magazine, this is a growing theory. So, what does it mean for you?

If you suspect you are suffering from arthritis, it is important to seek immediate medical care. Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, inflammation, swelling, stiffness, trouble sleeping, and decreased mobility. Treatment options do vary, but a proper diagnosis is key.

There are over one hundred different types of arthritis. Although the treatments are similar, a diagnosis is important. Start with your primary care physician. He or she may later suggest you visit an arthritis specialist, also commonly known as a rheumatologist.

Treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis typically include over-the-counter pain medication. This is to lessen the severity of the pain. Unfortunately, this relief is short lived. That is why many prescribe medication. When taken overtime, these medications work to combat arthritis. As for the importance of early treatment, the Arthritis Today magazine highlighted a study performed on the drug Humira. It showed that those diagnosed early were more likely to enter into remission in as little as two years!

Another important aspect of treatment is exercise. Excessive use of the troublesome joints can trigger pain. For that reason, patients need to start slow. For instance, a patient suffering from arthritis of the fingers should move and stretch their fingers daily.

Low impact exercises can relieve joint stiffness and lessen the likelihood of deformities. While pain is likely to increase at first, the more a joint is safely used, the more relief and freedom of movement you are likely to see.

In addition to exercise, healthy eating is important. Combined, the two should result in weight loss. Not all arthritis sufferers are overweight, but some are. This increases pain, as the extra body weight applies more pressure to joints.

With some patients, the pain is trigged by certain foods. Most see success by eliminating or reducing meat and dairy intake. In terms of natural remedies, nothing is scientifically proven, but as we discussed in a previous issue many patients report relief after consuming pineapples, cayenne pepper, raw cabbage, and cold-water fish.

As for why early treatment is important, it slows the progression of the disease. Juveniles are the only individuals likely to outgrow rheumatoid arthritis. For adults, the disease will only progress and get worse, especially without treatment. The health complications are far too great to not do everything you can to help prevent progression and health complications that may lead to severe limitations, disability, loss of mobility, and even deformities.

Some ways you can manage and prevent arthritis pain and inflammation.

If you suffer from arthritis, pain and inflammation becomes a part of your life. Even those who have dealt with arthritis for years, still suffer. With arthritis, the pain is more than physical. It’s emotional too.

When seeking relief, you want more than temporary relief. The best approach is to stop pain before it starts. How? Fortunately, you have many options. Let’s go over some of them now:

– Exercise

Exercise is vital to create a strong and healthy body. Not only that, it can relieve and prevent the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Those suffering from severe pain, often left their symptoms go untreated. Their joints are so stiff that it literally hurts to move. If you have reached this point, it will take time. If not, start the process now. Exercise results in joint movement, lessening the stiffness and the pain overtime. It also builds muscle strength. This strength provides the joints with protection, lessening the pressure and pain.

– Protect joints

Those who suffer from severe forms of arthritis suffer every minute of the day. They wake up and feel pain. In fact, a full night’s sleep may be near impossible. Prevent joint pain by wisely using your joints and muscles. For instance, if you suffer from arthritis in your elbows or hips? Limit the strenuous activity that requires these joints. Instead of lifting heavy boxes with your arms, lift with the entire body. Instead of turning only the upper part of the body at the hips, reposition the entire body to get a good look.

– Sleep

As I mentioned, sleep can be difficult for those suffering from severe pain. A good night’s sleep is vital to preventing pain. The energy the body receives from sleep can ward off pain or lessen its severity. If your nights are restless, sleep whenever possible. This may involve afternoon naps, but the payoff is worth it. A well-rested and well-energized body is able to ward off pain and manage it better.

– Medication in moderation

Unfortunately, those who suffer from pain and inflammation, whether it’s arthritis related or not, rely on pain relievers. Some reach the point where they take medication before pain even sets in. They think it will start eventually, so why wait. Don’t take this approach, unless advised by a medical professional. The body grows dependent on the medication we ingest. It is easy to become mentally addicted to over-the-counter pain medication. To prevent pain, exercise, eat healthy, and get a good night sleep. Wait until the pain arrives before turning to over-the-counter medication.

– Reduce stress

There is no doubt that arthritis sufferer’s deal with pain. However, our bodies play a huge role in the impact it has on our lives. A positive outlook on life will help. The less you focus on your pain, the less you will feel. Relaxation is key too. Does a warm bath relax your body and sooth your joint pain? If so, fill up the bathtub, add scented bubbles, and turn on your favorite music.

– Get a massage

Most patients are surprised to hear their physicians recommend massages. Most assume they will be loaded with pain relievers and sent homes. Yes, over-the-counter relievers do assist with pain, but so does a good old massage. It relaxes the body and mind. Massages also warm the body and promote movement. In some cases, regular massages can help to prevent pain.

As you can see, there are many ways to avoid and manage the pain associated with arthritis. In fact, these are just a few of your options. No matter what type of arthritis you suffer from or how severe the symptoms, know you are not alone and that relief is available.

Some free ways to get relief from arthritis pain.

Anyone who suffers with arthritis knows pain management is important. Without it, you may be unable to function from day-to-day. Unfortunately, many home remedies and over-the-counter medications require money.

Although there are, many products available and you can purchase a bottle of pain medication for a few dollars, that may be money you just don’t have to spare and with long term use the cost can add up fast. So, what should you do, just live with the pain? No, there are many ways to seek arthritis pain relief and many are free!

– Regular exercise

Right about now you may be thinking exercise isn’t possible. After all, your joints are in pain. However, the majority of physicians recommend regular exercise for arthritis relief. Yes, this is true. Exercise can help and should be incorporated it your daily routine, not just those suffering from arthritis.

When it comes to arthritis, exercise does wonders for the body. It assists with weight loss and promotes healthy freedom of movement. This movement strengthens the muscles surrounding the joints, which provides extra protection and reinforcement.

While exercise is necessary, it isn’t always free. If you’re on a budget, wisely plan your workouts. Instead of opting for a gym membership so you can use the treadmill, walk around your neighborhood or inside a shopping center. There are also excellent walking videos that you can use in the comfort of your own home, like Walk Away the Pounds and don’t forget to search YouTube for free Power Walk options.

Here is a website dedicated to walking from home:
http://www.walkathome.com/

Instead of signing up for an aerobics class, turn on some music in your home and move around. Something as simple as stretching your fingers daily can provide long-term pain relief.

Although this exercise may be painful at first, it will get easier overtime. Remember any type of movement will reduce joint stiffness. This should not only provide pain relief, but it lessens the risk of additional complications. For, individuals with arthritis who don’t learn the little or no treatment later find themselves dealing with severe stiffness, the inability to move, and deformities. Combine diet and exercise to lose weight.

Right about now, you may be thinking dieting isn’t free either. In reality it is. You already buy food and drinks. You need these to survive. Carefully choose your foods. Eliminate those high in fat and calories.

Weight loss is an easy way to lessen the pain associated with arthritis. The less weight you have pressing on the joints, the less pain you will experience. If you don’t have any weight to lose that’s good, but you still need to be aware of the importance and many health benefits of healthy eating.

Avoid applying too much pressure to the painful joints. Many suffering from severe arthritis will experience pain no matter what the activity, while others will only experience pain when trigged.

For example, individuals who have pain in their elbows should still exercise moderately but avoid lifting heavy items that can trigger a flair-up. They should also be careful to lift items properly.

Yes, it is easier to reach down and grab a box, but this can put undo strain the elbows. Instead, properly squat down and lift with your entire body. Avoiding joint pressure will not eliminate arthritis pain, but it will lessen the severity.

– Ask for help

As we have discusses before, some arthritis sufferers trigger severe pain by trying to complete tasks they shouldn’t. If you have severe arthritis in your hands, don’t spend hours trying to open a jar. Not only will you get frustrated with your inability to open it, you increase the risk of severe pain. Instead, ask for help.

Getting relief from arthritis symptoms doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Just make sure you try to exercise regularly, eat healthy, limit strenuous activity, and ask for help. Doing so will lessen the pain you experience, without costing you a penny.

Some foods that can help relieve arthritis pain and inflammation.

Many who suffer from arthritis use over-the-counter pain medication. In fact, it often becomes a common fixture in their lives. Unfortunately, some individuals are susceptible to addiction and there are health complications due to over-consumption.

If this is the case then it may be time to consider some natural ways to relieve pain and inflammation. You can often start in your kitchen. Although there are no guarantees, many arthritis patients see success by incorporating certain foods into their diets.

What type of foods? Let’s go over a few:

– Pineapple

Pineapple is recommended for arthritis because it contains a chemical called Bromelain. Many claims this helps to prevent inflammation. In fact, some athletic trainers recommend its consumption to keep joints pain free and flexible. As with any other health foods, it is best to consume fresh instead of canned or frozen.

Oily fish. Those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis are often encouraged to avoid meats. Meat has fat that is known to produce inflammation agents in the body. The only exception to this is with fish. Oily fish, such as mackerel and salmon, are rich in omeg-3 fatty acids. These acids have many health benefits. They inhibit the release of joint destroying chemicals and compounds. Supplements are found in most retail stores, but it is best to get these oils directly from the source.

– Celery

The celery plant contains many different anti-inflammatory agents. These can lessen the suffering of arthritis pain and discomfort. It is best to eat the celery seeds. Most recommend placing up to one teaspoon of celery seeds into a cup with warm, but not boiling water. Let stand for a few minutes and drink. This can provide almost instant relief during an attack. The celery plant as a whole contains anti-inflammatory agents; so eating fresh celery regularly has benefits too.

– Red chili pepper.

Red pepper, also known as cayenne pepper, can help relieve the joint pain associated with most types of arthritis. As for how, you may be amazed. Many claim it causes the release of natural endorphins. Essentially, your body itself stops the pain. Not only should patients consume red chili pepper, but a topical mixture works too.

Many recommend mixing up to one quart of rubbing alcohol with once ounce of cayenne pepper. It is important to note, this mixture is to be applied to the skin during bouts of pain. Under no circumstances should you drink the mixture due to the rubbing alcohol.

– Sesame seeds

The Chinese have long believed and used sesame seeds to combat the inflammation caused by arthritis. As with oil, sesame seeds contain healthy fatty acids. For the best results, eat sesame seeds straight. If you dislike taste or texture, opt for incorporating them into your meals. Eat sesame seed rolls and use them when preparing dinner at home. They can be added to most foods.

– Ginger

Ginger is well known and widely used to fight inflammation. Most commonly used as a cooking spice, it has many health benefits. In addition to reducing inflammation, it assists in treating diarrhea and nausea. Available in a spice format, it can and should be sprinkled atop cooked vegetables and other foods. As with omeg-3 fatty oils, it is best to go directly to the source. Fresh ginger is easy to peel and cook. Wrapped in a towel, bag, and freeze for months. It is also found in the non-carbonated ginger ale drink.

– Raw cabbage

Although not as well-known and as popular as the above-mentioned foods, many also claim raw cabbage assists with arthritis relief. Some recommend the regular consumption of raw cabbage or cabbage juice. They claim this relieves both joint pain and swelling.

While the foods we discussed in this issue may help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, unfortunately, there are no guarantees. Our bodies each process food in different ways.

For instance, celery can work to reduce joint pain for one individual, but it may actually trigger additional pain with another. In fact, some forms of rheumatoid arthritis are trigged by certain foods. For that reason, be prepared to experiment. Trial and error can help you determine which foods are the best at relieving your own, unique pain and inflammation.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The second type is rheumatoid arthritis affects over one million people in the United States. It doesn’t discriminate, it effects people of all ages. In fact, there are three types of rheumatoid arthritis for juveniles alone. The cause? The immune system is supposed to protect our body, but in some cases, it does the exact opposite. With rheumatoid arthritis, it attacks the joint lining membrane.

 

The most noticeable symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is pain. If untreated, other complications can arise. The most common is disability. To prevent this from happening, all patients are urged to exercise their joints and muscles, even though it may be painful at first.

Another common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation. The swelling can be mild to severe. In most instances, this is what separates rheumatoid arthritis from other forms. Swelling and inflammation is likely, but it is much more prominent and debilitating.

Most rheumatoid arthritis suffers rarely experience constant pain. The disease flares up from time to time. These flare ups are trigged by joint overuse and certain foods. As for the cause, it is currently unknown. There are however many theories. One being genes.

Now that you are familiar with the most common types of arthritis, what comes next? If you or someone who you know suffers from arthritis, medical care is essential. A proper diagnosis is important to developing the best treatment option. Low impact exercise can loosen the joints and strengthen the surrounding muscles. This not help eliminate some of the joint stiffness, it can also prevent disability and deformities in chronic suffers.

Some pain can be treated, but it will reoccur. Here are a few tips that can help you learn how to manage pain. Start by eliminating stress, ask for help when you need it, get plenty of sleep, and learn how to relax. While these are only general tips that sound almost too simple, they really can help.

Alleviating arthritis pain and inflammation is not an exact science. What works for one person may not work for another, so it is important to take care of your overall health in order help minimize it’s painful side effects.

Is instant relief from Arthritis pain and Inflammation possible?

As we well know, there are over one hundred different types of arthritis. Despite the different causes and symptoms they all have, one thing is common and that is pain. All arthritis patients suffer pain in varying degrees. For some, it comes and goes. For others it’s constant. You want relief and you want it now, but is instant arthritis pain relief possible? The answer is, yes and no.

Before focusing on a few ways that you can get quick arthritis pain relief, it is important to note variances. It all depends on your definition of instant. For most, instant means right away and immediately, because when you are in pain, 15 minutes can literally feel like a lifetime. For others, 10 to 15 minutes is soon enough.

As we discussed in a previous issue, in terms of over-the-counter arthritis relief, you have two main options. Those are over-the-counter pain pills and over-the-counter topical arthritis creams. So, which provides you with the fastest relief? It all depends on your body.

Most pain relief capsules or tablets have to dissolve in your body to start working. It can take time for the entire pill to dissolve, which means they take a little longer to be effective. On the other hand, Advil has a Liquid-Gel capsules where just the outer layer needs to dissolve, so relief is typically faster. Tylenol has a special arthritis formula that has two dissolving layers; one is fast for quick relief and the second is slower for long-lasting relief.

When it topical creams, most see relief right away. In fact, you may experience relief as soon as the cream makes contact with the skin. Even if you have never used these creams before, you may have used Bengay or a similar cream to treat achy pains.

Another way to get almost instant pain relief is through heat. Your options include soaking in a warm bath, wrapping the joint in a warm washcloth, using on-the-go heating patches or a reusable heating pouch. Many experience pain relief until the heat stops. It is best to use heat as a source of relief until your over-the-counter pain pills are able to kick in.

Many natural supplements also claim to add in the relief of arthritis pain and swelling. These supplements are nice, as most are natural and safe. However, they do have their pros and cons. The biggest downside is that most aren’t designed for immediate relief. They require, continued use to provide long-lasting relief.

The same is true for exercise. It may be difficult to move your achy joints at first, but continued low-impact exercise can reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling overtime. Remember that preventing or lessening the risk of pain, discomfort, and swelling is just as important as treating it.

Make sure you look for your next issue soon. We will be talking about some ways you can manage and prevent arthritis pain and inflammation.

Gout Diet May Help You Lose Weight

Gout, while not deadly, is a very painful condition. If it is left untreated it can cause serious tissue damage. Gout is a form of arthritis. The cause of gout is buildup of small crystals in your joints. These crystals are comprised of uric acid.

When there is a buildup of these uric acid crystals, there can be intense pain, swelling, inflammation, and redness. Usually the kidneys regulate the levels of uric acid in our bodies. When the kidneys fail to regulate the uric acid, is when gout can strike. The kidneys may not properly regulate the uric acid for any one of the following reasons: Trouble with kidneys, change in types of foods consumed, change in weight, illness, certain medications being taken, etc…

The excess uric acid can be linked to something called purines. Purines are found in certain types of foods that we consume. Some foods have higher levels of purines than others. Since the food containing purines causes the excess uric acid, one way which gout can be controlled is by going on a gout diet.

There has been much research done in this field. If you are prone to getting gout, then you should avoid the foods which contain high and significant amounts of purines. Foods high in proteins have also been linked to gout. In fact, it has been found that people who eat a lot of meat and/or seafood are at a greater risk of getting gout.

If you have gout, these are the foods that you should avoid while on a gout diet: Herring, mussels, smelt, sweetbreads, anchovies, mutton, veal, bacon, liver, salmon, turkey, pâté, goose, haddock, pheasant, and scallops. You should also avoid foods, like bread, that contain yeast.

You should also steer clear of beer, since yeast is used in making it. You should also not drink alcohol while on a gout diet either. Also, you should try to avoid foods and drinks that contain high fructose corn syrup, including soft drinks. Diet soft drinks should be okay to drink; just make sure you read the label.

When on a gout diet you should try to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also eat whole grains. Protein consumption should be limited to 15% of your daily diet. You should only eat lean protein. This would include skinless chicken and turkey.

You should try to avoid red meat. While on a gout diet, you also want to limit your fat intake. Fats should not exceed 30% of your daily calories. Only 10% of your calories should come from animal fat.

By watching what you eat while on a gout diet, you should be able to prevent an outbreak. It is always important to seek medical advice and diagnosis if you believe you have gout. Your doctor will also probably prescribe medication to help control gout, if you have it. As you can see just being on a gout diet may help you lose weight.