The Most Common Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease characterized by an inflammation in the joint area. Rheumatoid arthritis is said to be a disease of the immune system. What happens inside the body of a patient diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis is that his immune system mistakenly thinks that his own body tissues are harmful bacteria or viruses. And so the antibodies move to attack them. But these tissues are actually healthy tissues. In fact, they are the main ones that compose the joints. When this happens, the particular area where antibodies attacked becomes severely inflamed.

Rheumatoid arthritis can be caused by a number of factors. While it is rather hard even for the doctors to tell their patient what actually makes them contract the disease, the most common of all factors are listed below:

Viruses, Fungi, and Bacteria

These elements have long been suspected to be the root causes of rheumatoid arthritis. But then again, it hasn't been proven that they alone are sufficient to cause the disease. What is certain is that viruses, fungi, and bacteria play a certain role in the development of the disease, as they trigger the body's immune system to act. Therefore, it can not be ruled out that these infectious agents may have something to do with rheumatoid arthritis.

Genetics

There are also studies showing that rheumatoid arthritis can be inherited. There have been worldwide researches performed to seek the main cause of this disease. And with that many researches conducted, all of experts behind them can't rule genetics as a factor. In a certain group of patients who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, it was found out that a number of them have family members who are suffering from the disease in one way or another. This had caused scientists to assume that certain types of rheumatoid arthritis can be transferred genetically.

Allergens

Because rheumatoid arthritis involves the immune system, it is reasonable to assume that certain allergens cause the antibodies to attack the joints. Allergens fall under the environmental factors that could trigger the disease. These could be the food you eat, exposure to certain types of bacteria in the air, and the deficiency of certain types of vitamins in the body. It is therefore important that a series of consultations with a health expert is carried out so that it becomes easy for them to determine what triggers a particular rheumatoid arthritis attack. Defining one's allergen is very helpful in preventing the disease.

Changes in One's Hormones

One other cause of rheumatoid arthritis would be the changes in one's hormones. For the females, it was found out that during pregnancy, their levels of progesterone and estrogen becomes relatively high. However, after giving birth, it drastically decreases. This is one of the reasons why rheumatoid arthritis often happens in a woman after child birth.

On the flip side, some mothers have experienced improved rheumatoid arthritis condition during the entire length of their pregnancy. But after the time the baby is born, they experience a certain degree of flare up.

Smoking

There have been relevant studies that show smoking tobacco can increase a person's risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, now or at any time in the future. On the other hand, for those people who already have rheumatoid arthritis and still continue to smoke, their chances of having an attack are higher than those who don't. There are certain substances found inside a tobacco that triggers the attack.

These are the different and most common causes of rheumatoid arthritis. Knowing the main root of the disease is going to be very helpful in preventing its occurrence altogether. And if the main cause of rheumatoid arthritis is defined, the very people who are suffering from it may act accordingly to make sure they keep away from the very things that cause the disease. Doing so will spare them of the intense pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint and muscle that can be affected by the disease.

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Juvenile Arthritis - Causes And Treatments of Juvenile Arthritis

Juvenile arthritis or formerly called Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) is described in children under the age of 16. The word 'rheumatoid' was dropped from the name because it is a misnomer giving people the idea that the disease process is much like the adult Rheumatoid Arthritis. It is not.

Juvenile Arthritis is also called Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, Juvenile Chronic Arthritis, and Childhood Arthritis. It is actually a collection of three different diseases that are arthritic in nature.

Juvenile arthritis affects 1 in 1,000 children in the United States. The hallmarks are pain, stiffness and swelling that last longer than six weeks and are not caused by an injury or another illness. Although the arthritis may initially present itself after an injury or illness these are not the cause.

The cause is actually unknown. There are no genetic factors that can be found, it doesn't run in families and it cannot be passed from one person to another. The how is known - the immune system of the sufferer begins to attack healthy tissue. The why is a mystery.

There is no single symptom or arthritis test to diagnose juvenile arthritis. Physicians will use blood tests and x-rays to rule out other illnesses such as rheumatic fever, and to gauge the extent of the disease as they plan treatment. The most qualified physicians to treat arthritis in children are rheumatologists. These are physicians who have had more years of special education and testing to diagnose and treat diseases that cause inflammation in joints, muscles and other tissues.

The diagnosis of the disease is often made in the first six months following the onset of symptoms. Pauciarticular arthritis is the most common accounting for approximately ½ of the cases diagnosed. In this arthritis the inflammation usually affects four joints or less, affects girls more than boys and is diagnosed under the age of four. Children with Pauciarticular arthritis can also develop inflammation in the eyes (uveitis) which leads to blindness if not treated.

Pauciarticular arthritis responds well to natural remedies such as Omega 3 fatty acids, which may decrease the amount of medication the child needs to maintain a level of comfort. Very few children go on to develop systemic symptoms and in some cases the arthritis resolves in several years.

Polyarticular arthritis accounts for 40% of the children diagnosed with arthritis each year. These children have at least 5 joints affected and the disease will often affect symmetrically. In other words if the left hand is affected the same joints in the right hand will also be painful and swollen.

Polyarticular arthritis is more likely to affect the small bones and joints and when the large bones are affected they grow at different rates affecting the way the child walks. The child will develop a limp and can develop osteoarthritis later in life. Children go to the doctor with complaints of fever, rash and a decreased appetite. The diagnosis is most severe when the child is over 10 and also is positive for rheumatoid factor.

Systemic arthritis affects joints and some of the organs. Children have skin rashes, fever and inflammation of internal organs like the spleen and liver. Some call the disease Still disease after the doctor who first described it.

Systemic arthritis affects boys more than girls and accounts for only 10% of the childhood arthritis diagnosis each year. The children first complain between the ages of 5 and 10 years. The initial symptoms don't usually affect the joints. There are serious complications from the inflammation throughout the body but interestingly this inflammation doesn't affect the eyes.

Treatment of all three types of arthritis center on decreasing pain and inflammation of the joints to improve the comfort of the child and improve the potential for normal growth and development of the bone structures as the child continues to grow.

Treatment can also include exercise programs that do not overly stress the joints and tissues such as swimming and stretching. Exercise will release endorphins that decrease the perception of pain and are an antidote for depression.

Juvenile arthritis is a catch phrase for a group of illnesses that cause inflammation, pain and redness in the joints, soft tissue and some organs of children. An accurate arthritis tests are needed to assign the correct treatments and to plan for the child's future.

Vanessa Youngstrom, a nurse practitioner, enjoys writing and educating on health and wellness topics. You?ll find more articles at http://www.HealthAndWellnessIssues.com

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Exploring the Possible Causes of Arthritis

When a person is diagnosed with arthritis, one of the most common questions is how they got the arthritis to start with. While there are many possible causes of arthritis, sometimes, it can be quite difficult to pinpoint just one reason for the diagnosis of this particular condition. There are many reasons why arthritis may occur. When a person is diagnosed with something like arthritis, it is important to understand that many factors may play a part in a single diagnosis. Here, we will explore the possible causes of arthritis.

One of the most common possibilities as a cause of arthritis has to do with a person's genetic composition. If a person comes from a family with a long history of arthritis, or diseases that are related to arthritis, they may be diagnosed with arthritis at some point in their life. However, many cases of arthritis have occurred in a person with no genetic background that includes the disease. While this may be an obvious indication of why a person may develop arthritis, it is not as common as a person may believe.

Many medical professionals have concluded that the weight of an individual may contribute to the development of arthritis. This is a logical conclusion to the disease as excess weight can place an unfair burden on the joints that are throughout the body. This is why it is extremely important for people who are overweight to try to lose the weight safely and quickly. It is also important to get the right amount of hydration to keep the joints properly lubricated. A person should also work to ensure that they exercise on a regular basis.

Many doctors have concluded that previous injuries may result in the onset of the disease of arthritis. If a person receives an injury to one of the joints in the body, it may not heal properly. When an injury to the joints does not heal properly, it can cause unhealthy friction between various bones. When this happens, abnormal growths may occur on the bone. Once the growth has occurred, it may turn into a condition of arthritis.

If a person experiences a major infection, various types of illnesses, and autoimmune disorders, they may be at risk for developing arthritis. Arthritis is very common in people that already have an issue with their immunity and may have had a major infection in their lifetime. It is important to receive the proper care when you have this type of condition. Your doctor will be able to properly evaluate any changes in your bones if they are able to see you on a consistent basis. If they suspect that you may be developing arthritis, they will do the testing that is required to confirm this. If arthritis is caught at early stages, the chances for successful treatment are high.

Milos Pesic is professional rheumatologist who has helped hundreds of arthritis sufferers cure their condition. He runs a popular and comprehensive Arthritis web site. For more articles and resources on rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis treatment and symptoms, arthritis natural medication and much more visit his site at: http://arthritis.need-to-know.net/

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What Causes Arthritis? Is it a Disease Or Disorder? And, Natural Remedies to Help Arthritis Pain

Many of us are affected by arthritis, or know someone who is.  Arthritis is a condition of moderate to severe pain that affects the joints, but what exactly is it that causes some people to get arthritis while others don't?

The quick and easy answer as to what causes arthritis is that we really don't know yet.  There's no one answer that explains every case.  There's no "arthritis disease" that you catch like a cold that causes you to develop symptoms.  Arthritis is simply a joint disorder that develops with time.  In fact, there are over a hundred types of arthritis and many of them are probably caused by different factors.

What we do know is that there are some risk factors that increase your chances or having a problem.  While they may not be the root cause of your arthritis, they could definitely be helping to further the problem along. 

One of the biggest risk factors associated with arthritis is age.  You know that as you get older, there's more wear and tear on your body.  Arthritis may not be caused specifically by wear and tear on the joints, but it will definitely speed up the process or increase symptoms.  That is why a large number of people over 65 have arthritis, regardless of the other factors.

Another factor that can increase your chances of developing arthritis is weight.  If you are overweight, you're going to increase the stress on your joints and will likely have more problems with arthritis.  Starting a diet and exercise plan now may reduce symptoms or slow the progress of the disease.

Joint injury is often a factor in developing arthritis.  Just like all the other factors, it's not a root cause; however, you're more likely to develop arthritis in a joint that has had a previous injury.  If you do injure yourself, be sure to care for it properly so it heals quickly and doesn't get damaged again.

Doctors aren't really sure how big a part genetics plays into the development of arthritis, but they do know it's related.  If your parents have arthritis, it's more likely that you will as well.  Although this doesn't mean that just because your parents had it, you will too.  By reducing the likeliness from other causes, you can reduce your risk. 

Many people associate arthritis with athletes and other physically active people.  While it would make sense that physical work would put more stress on joints and increase the likelihood of arthritis, studies really haven't shown this to be true.  While the risk of athletes developing arthritis is higher, this is associated with their increased chance of joint injury.  This means you can continue your daily exercise routine (it will probably even help), but always take precautions to avoid injury.

When most people think of arthritis, they're often thinking of osteoarthritis.  However, rheumatoid arthritis is a less common but very serious illness.  While symptoms can be similar the causes are not.  Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which means the body is actually attacking itself and causing damage to its own joints. 

While you can't prevent arthritis or control all these factors, you can take steps to reduce them, keeping yourself pain free for longer. Here are some natural remedies to help control your arthritis pain.

Arthritis Hand Relief Bath

* 2 drops Rosemary

* 2 drops Chamomile in Jojoba

* 2 drops Juniper

* 1ml Evening Primrose Oil

Add 4-6 drops of mixture to warm water and soak for 15 minutes.

If skin needs nourishment, mix the essential oils in 5ml Sweet Almond Oil before adding to water.

Follow the hand bath with a soothing hand massage, to nourish and protect the skin.

Circulation and Painful Joints Bath

* 2 tbsp Almond oil

* 2 drops each of Lemon grass oil, Coriander oil, and Clove oil

Measure Almond oil into a small bowl, Slowly add all the oils. Mix ingredients and pour into running water.

This bath helps stimulate the Circulation and relive suffering joints and muscles

Gentle Arthritis Bath

* 15 drops Lavender

* 5 drops Clary Sage

* 10 drops Geranium

* 3 drops Ylang Ylang.

Place oils in bath under running water.Warm is sometimes better than hot.... Rinse thoroughly when finished.

Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Certified Aromatherapist and natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Health or High Water at http://www.healthorhighwater.com/ where you'll find info on ways to improve your health using nutritional supplements to help battle the ravages of time, poor nutrition, toxins & stress as well as address many common health conditions.

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Senior Citizens Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, and Arthritis - Causes and Treatments

"Arthritis" does not mean only that someone has stiff, aching joints. Many types of arthritis exist, each with its own symptoms and treatments. Most types are chronic, meaning that they can be a source of discomfort for an extended period of time. Arthritis can afflict joints almost anywhere in the body and may cause changes you can see and feel, including swelling, warmth, and redness in the joints. It can last for a short time but be very painful or continue for a long time with less pronounced results while still damaging the joints.

Arthritis is extremely common in the United States, especially among senior citizens. Still, there are many steps they and those providing care for the elderly can take to relieve the different types of arthritis. The most common types in this population are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

Osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis in senior citizens and begins when cartilage, the type of tissue that pads joints, begins to wear away. This can eventually cause all the cartilage between bones to wear away, forming painful rubbing of bones against each other. This type of arthritis is most common in the hands, neck, lower back, knees, and hips.

Symptoms of OA can range from stiffness and mild pain that accompanies exercise or bending to severe pain in the joints even in times of physical rest. OA can also cause stiffness during times in which you haven't used specific joints in a while, like when you're on a long car ride, but this stiffness usually goes away when you move your joints again. OA can eventually lead to problems moving joints and sometimes to developing a disability if the areas affected are the back, knees, or hips.

Aging is often the greatest risk factor for developing OA. Other factors depend on the area of the body afflicted-for instance, OA in the hands or hips may be caused by genetic factors; OA in the knees may be caused by being overweight; and injuries or overuse of joints in the knees, hips, and hands may lead to OA.

Rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) differs from OA in that it's an autoimmune disease, meaning that your immune system attacks and damages the lining of a joint as if it were an injury or disease. RA leads to inflammation of the joints, which causes pain, stiffness and swelling, sometimes in multiple joints at once. It may be severe enough to prevent you from moving a certain joint. Senior citizens with RA may often experience fatigue or fever. You can develop RA at any age, and it's more common in women. 

RA can afflict almost any joint in the body and is often symmetrical, meaning that if you have RA in a specific joint on one side of your body, you probably experience RA in the same joint on the other side of your body. RA can damage not only joints, but also the heart, muscles, blood vessels, nervous system, and eyes.

Gout.

Senior citizens with gout experience the most severe pain relative to many other arthritis patients. An attack begins when uric acid crystals form in the connective tissue or joint spaces, leading to swelling, stiffness, redness, heat, and pain in the joint. Attacks often follow eating foods like shellfish, liver, dried beans, peas, anchovies, or gravy. Drinking alcohol, being overweight, and taking certain medications may worsen the symptoms. In senior citizens, using certain medications to lower blood pressure may also be a risk factor for a gout attack.

Gout is most common in the big toe, but it can occur in other joints such as the ankle, elbow, knee, wrist, hand, or other toes. Swelling may cause discoloration and tenderness due to skin stretching tightly around the joint. If you see a doctor during an attack, he or she may take a sample of fluid from the affected joint.

Other forms of arthritis.

Other forms include psoriatic arthritis  in patients who have psoriasis; ankylosing spondylitis, which mainly affects the spine; reactive arthritis, which occurs as a reaction to another illness in the body; and arthritis in the temporomandibular joint, the point at which the jaw attaches to the skull.

Arthritis Symptoms and Warning Signs.

Senior citizens and those providing their elder care should look out for the following symptoms as they may be indications of arthritis:

lasting joint pain
swelling in a joint
stiffness in a joint
tenderness or pain when touching a joint
difficulty in using or moving a joint normally
warmth and redness in a joint

Any of these symptoms lasting longer than two weeks should be addressed by a physician. If you experience a fever, feel physically ill, have a suddenly swollen joint, or have problems using a joint, a doctor should be contacted sooner. You will have to answer questions and go through a physical exam. Before suggesting treatment options, your doctor may want to run lab tests and take X-rays.

Arthritis Treatment.

Some common treatment options exist even though each type of arthritis is treatedsomewhat differently. Rest, exercise, eating a healthy diet, and becoming educated about the right way to use and protect the joints are key to minimizing the effects of arthritis. Proper shoes and a cane can minimize pain the feet, knees, and hips while walking, and some technology exists for helping open jars or bottles, turn doorknobs more easily, and otherwise improve quality of life in senior citizens with arthritis. 

Additionally, some medications can lower the pain and swelling. Acetaminophen (in Tylenol) and some NSAIDs are sold over-the-counter and can ease pain. Other NSAIDs must be prescribed. It is important for senior citizens and those providing their in home care to pay attention to the warnings on both prescribed and over-the-counter drugs and to ask a doctor about how to properly and best use over-the-counter medicine to treat arthritis. The FDA also has information about many medications.

Some treatment options are specialized for individual types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis Treatment.

There are medicines to help senior citizens with pain associated with OA, and rest and exercise may ease movement in the joints. Managing weight is also important. If one experiences OA in the knees, a doctor can provide shots in the knee joint, which can help to move it without as much pain. Surgery may also be an option to repair or replace damaged joints in senior citizens.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatments.

Treatment can diminish the pain and swelling associated with RA and cause joint damage to slow down or stop. One will feel better overall, and it will be easier to move around. On top of pain and anti-inflammatory medications, a doctor might prescribe DMARDs, which are anti-rheumatic drugs that can slow damage from RA. Corticosteroids, including prednisone, can minimize swelling while waiting for DMARDs to kick in. Additionally, biogenic response modifiers block the damage inflicted by the immune system and help people with mild to moderate RA when other treatments have failed to work properly.

Gout Treatment.

If you've gone through a gout attack, talk to a doctor to discuss possible causes and future prevention of attacks. Work together with your doctor and other elder care providers to plan and execute a plan for prevention. Commonly, NSAIDs or corticosteroids are recommended for an acute attack. This treatment diminishes swelling, allowing you to feel better fairly shortly after treatment. Usually, the attack fully stops within a few days. If one has experienced multiple attacks, a doctor may be able to prescribe medication to prevent further attacks.

Exercise can help Arthritis.

In addition to taking the proper medication and allowing your joints to rest, exercise can help senior citizens to stay in shape, maintain strong muscles, and control symptoms of arthritis. Daily exercise like walking or swimming keeps joints moving while lessening pain and strengthening the muscles around joints. Before starting any new exercise program, it is important to discuss options with your physician. 

Three types of exercise are the best for senior citizens with arthritis:

Range-of-motion exercises reduce stiffness, improve flexibility, and keep joints moving. Activities like dancing fit into this category.
Strengthening exercises strengthen muscles, which improves support and protection to your joints. Weight training fits into this category.
Aerobic or endurance exercises improve health in the heart and arteries, prevent weight gain, improve how your body works overall, and may decrease swelling in some joints. Riding a bike fits into this category.

Other things to do to manage Arthritis.

On top of exercise and weight control, a number of other methods may help senior citizens ease the pain around joints. Applying heat or cold to joints, soaking in a warm tub, or swimming in a heated pool may help you feel better and move your joints more easily.

Surgery may be an option when damage has become disabling or when other treatment options have not adequately diminished pain. With surgery, joints can be repaired or replaced with artificial ones. Commonly, arthritic knees and hips are replaced.

Unproven remedies.

Many senior citizens with arthritis try treatments that have not been tested or proven to help. Some are harmful, like snake venom, while others are harmless yet unhelpful, like copper bracelets.

Here are a few ways to determine whether a treatment is unproven:

The remedy is said to work for all types of arthritis and other diseases
Scientific support is from only one research study
The label doesn't include directions or warnings of use

Areas for further research.

Studies suggest that acupuncture could ease OA pain in some senior citizens. Dietary supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin are also under investigation and may reduce OA pain. More research is needed to determine whether these types of treatments actually work to reduce symptoms and damage to joints.

Talk to your doctor and others involved in your elder care.

Try not to make light of your symptoms by telling yourself that joint pain or stiffness is simply caused by aging normally. Your doctor and other elder care providers can discuss possible treatment options with you to safely minimize your pain and stiffness and prevent more serious joint damage.

The Caring Space
http://www.TheCaringSpace.com

David Crumrine at the Caring Space
We are an organization that connects caregivers and care seekers, providing an easy and affordable resource for families seeking care for friends/loved ones and caregivers seeking employment.

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Arthritis Pain - Understanding Its Signs and Causes - Health and Fitness Even With Arthritis

Arthritis is a term that includes a group of disorders which affect joints and muscles. Arthritis symptoms include joint pain, inflammation and limited movement of joints. When a joint is inflamed it may be swollen, tender, warm to the touch or red. In joint arthritis, the cartilage is usually damaged, narrowed and lost by a degeneration process or by inflammation. This makes movement painful. Arthritis is the most common and disabling chronic condition in women. Some myths hold it that Arthritis is a disease of aging. While this appears so, yet infants can be affected from birth with a form of arthritis known as Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Pain

Dealing with pain can be the hardest part of having arthritis or a related condition, but you can learn to manage it and its impact on your life. Pain is the body's alarm system that tells us that something is wrong. When the body is injured, nerves in the affected area release chemical signals. Other nerves send these signals to the brain, where they are recognized as pain. Pain often tells the affected person that action is required. Long-lasting pain, like the one that accompanies arthritis, is different. While it tells you that something is wrong, it often is not as easy to relieve. Managing this type of pain is essential to enhance quality of life and sense of well-being.

Causes of Arthritis

Arthritis pain is caused by several factors, such as: inflammation, damage to joint tissues, fatigue that results from the disease process. Arthritis pain and inflammation cannot be avoided as the body ages. Along with physical changes, such as difficulty in moving, the emotional ups and downs of arthritis also can add to your pain. If you feel depressed or stressed because your movement is limited or you can no longer do some of the activities you enjoy, your pain may seem worse. You may get caught up in a cycle of pain, limited abilities, stress and depression that makes managing your pain and arthritis seem more difficult.

Signs of Arthritis

Arthritis pain can be ongoing or can come and go. It may occur when you are moving or after you have been still for some time. You may feel pain in one spot or in many parts of your body. Your joints may feel stiff and be hard to move. You may find that it is hard to do daily tasks you used to do easily, such as climbing the staircase or opening a jar or even writing. Pain and stiffness usually will be more severe in the morning or after periods of inactivity. In some cases of inflammatory arthritis, the skin over the joint may appear swollen and red, and feel warm to the touch. Some types of arthritis can also be associated with fatigue.

Types of Arthritis

There are five main types of Arthritis: Osteoarthritis (OA), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Fibromyalgia, Lupus, and Gout. The two most common types, Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are frequently experienced by women. The various types of Arthritis and related conditions can affect anyone, no matter his race, gender or race.

• Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common one and is mostly known as degenerative joint disease. It causes damage to cartilage and bones causing joint pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function. It develops when cartilage (the smooth covering over the bones in the joints), starts to break down, usually as a result of aging, trauma or increased wear and tear. The result is pain and inflammation as bone rubs against bone.

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic disease that can affect the whole body, caused by abnormality in the body's immune system making it to work improperly and therefore leading to inflammation of the joints and some internal organs. Such chronic inflammation leads to deterioration, pain and limited movement. It is an autoimmune disease and has no known cause. Two percent of people worldwide are affected while it is three times more common in women than men. Symptoms of RA are inflamed, swollen, painful and deformed joints.

Understanding arthritis is essential for its management, treatment and control. Inadequate or incorrect information however, may lead to unnecessary panic with harmful consequences.

Every moment that you live with arthritis pain, is a wasted moment! It is gone forever, and you will never get it back. If you have been diagnosed with arthritis, you are not alone. More than 46 million adults in the United States have reported being diagnosed by their doctor with some form of arthritis. No matter what your age is or how long you have been suffering, living with the pain of arthritis can be a thing of the past.

If you want to get more information about and understanding of arthritis as well as how to manage it visit: http://www.alwayshealthy.info

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Inflammatory Arthritis - Types, Causes and Symptoms

What is Inflammatory Arthritis?

There are many forms of arthritis. Inflammatory arthritis is any form of arthritis that involves the immune system and inflammation. The characteristic symptoms of inflammation are swelling, heat, redness of skin, pain, and loss of function. There are different types of inflammatory arthritis.

Autoimmune Disorders

The body treats it own tissues as a foreign object and reacts to this foreign object with inflammation


Rheumatoid arthritis - antibodies produced by the body attack the synovial membrane that encloses each joint


Lupus - systematically affects connective tissues and organs


Ankylosing Spondylitis - a progressive form of arthritis that causes inflammation of the spine and large joints


Reiter's Syndrome - a chronic, progressive disease that can affect the joints, tendon attachments, skeleton, and the eye's conjunctiva and mucous membranes


Psoriatic arthritis - causes inflammation of the skin and joints


Inflammatory bowel disease - inflammatory arthritis can be associated with this disease

Other Causes of Inflammatory Arthritis

Inflammatory arthritis can be caused by other conditions, as well. Reactive arthritis is caused by certain types of bacteria and can develop from an infection in another part of your body. The deposit of crystalline structures in the joints causes gout and pseudogout. Elevated blood levels of uric acid, which is a waste product, can form in the joints when the kidney does not properly dispose of the waste.

Symptoms of Inflammatory Arthritis

The symptoms of inflammatory arthritis can include the following:

Pain in one or more joints
Swelling in one or more joints
The affected joint is usually warmer than other joints
Stiffness and decrease of ability to move affected joints
Symptoms may appear after a minor illness or emotional stress
Skin around joints may become red and tender

Treatment of Inflammatory Arthritis

The symptoms of inflammatory arthritis can be treated with medicines or natural remedies. However, it is very important to find the cause of the arthritis so that the root problem can be treated as well. Medications can be used to treat the pain and inflammation, but there are many natural remedies that have been more successful in treating the cause of the inflammatory arthritis. If you use medications to relieve the symptoms of inflammatory arthritis, be sure to learn of any side effects or reactions to other medications or food.

Some natural remedies for the treatment of inflammatory arthritis include:

Exercise - a regular exercise regimen helps to avoid stiffness of the joints associated with inflammatory arthritis
Water aerobics - endorphins produced in the brain during water aerobics can help ease the pain of inflammatory arthritis

Valerian - this can be used to treat the pain of inflammatory arthritis. This natural medication is a known sedative and caution should be used - some people have experienced withdrawal symptoms when stopping abruptly.
Comfrey - a comfrey salve can be used to reduce the inflammation of the affected joints
Mangosteen - this fruit has been shown to relieve both the inflammation and pain associated with inflammatory arthritis

Omega-3 fatty acids - can be found in foods such as cold-water fish, walnut, and flaxseeds.

Diet for Inflammatory Arthritis

Diet is also another way that you can prevent or lessen the symptoms associated with inflammatory arthritis. A healthy diet is important for overall health. There are some foods that can trigger the onset of inflammation in the joints and some foods that decrease the onset of inflammation. If you suffer from inflammatory arthritis, you should eliminate milk and milk products. You should avoid polyunsaturated fats and products that are made with partially hydrogenated oils. The best kind of diet for those who suffer from inflammatory arthritis is low in protein and high in carbohydrates. Some of the common foods that can trigger the symptoms of arthritis are milk and dairy products, beef, corn, and wheat. Avoiding these foods can help you to avoid triggering the symptoms. In general, a healthy diet and regular exercise can help you to avoid many of the symptoms of inflammatory arthritis.

Dr John Anne is an herbal specialist with years of experience and extensive research on herbs and alternative health. If you are looking for more information, read about Arthritis Medication at http://www.ayurvediccure.com/arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis.html AyurvedicCure.com is the World?s Largest Alternative Health Portal. Also participate in Health Questions Q&A where you can Ask, Answer and Earn Money! A great opportunity to get help from other people for free!

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Causes of Arthritis and Effects of Glutathione

While it is a common disease especially among the elderly, the exact causes of arthritis are for the most part, unknown.

Arthritis is a common disease especially among the elderly yet the exact causes of arthritis are, for the most part, unknown. Of the more than 100 types of arthritis, only several have an identifiable cause. The rest are idiopathic. Rheumatoid arthritis, for example, and most cases of osteoarthritis have no known cause.

Even when the cause is identified, it is unclear as to how some people develop the disease when others who have gone through the same conditions and share the same risk factors do not. For instance, a person with a broken knee may develop arthritis several years down the road, but other people with a similar broken knee may not get arthritis.

There are however, several factors that have been linked to the development of arthritis which some people even consider as causes of arthritis.

Here are some of the common risk factors for arthritis:

Heredity

Certain types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout can be passed down through the genes. Individuals with a family history of arthritis need to be extra careful because they have a genetic predisposition to the joint disease.

Injury

Injuries and trauma to the joints are among the most common risk factors for arthritis. They may not immediately lead to arthritis but they can do so in the long run. A deformity or tear in the surrounding cartilages, tendons and ligaments caused by a joint injury can result in scars and weakened areas.

Further injury, abuse and strain on the weakened joint can completely compromise the integrity of the joint and eventually pave the path for arthritis to set in.

Aging

Aging also numbers among the most common risk factors for arthritis. In many cases, the disease is a normal event that occurs with old age. Just like the cogs in the wheels of a car, joints eventually break down after a lifetime of wear and tear.

Infection

Local infections can be disseminated in the bloodstream and carried to the joints and other parts of the body. The infectious agents may be bacteria, fungi or viruses. Arthritis cases caused by the spread of infection are few and far between and usually affect individuals who are already suffering from another type of arthritis.

Abnormal Metabolism

Metabolic abnormalities can also lead to the development of arthritis.

The abnormal purine metabolism in gout, for instance, can lead to the formation of uric acid crystals which usually lodge themselves at the joints of the big toes.

Autoimmunity

Autoimmunity happens when the body attacks its own cells and tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory type of arthritis.

Other Diseases

Some diseases can count as risk factors for arthritis because arthritis can be developed secondary to these disorders. Severe cases of Lyme disease, for example, can result in the swelling of various joints.

Obesity

Extra weight places extra stress on weight-bearing joints. If the joints are unable to bear the added pressure, then osteoarthritis can occur. It is therefore important to maintain a normal weight by eating a well-balanced, well-portioned diet.

Benefits of glutathione can also help curb obesity. This powerful antioxidant helps flush out bad cholesterol from the body and also has anti-inflammatory effects which is very helpful for people with arthritis.

Gender

Both males and females can get arthritis but certain types of the joint disease play favorites. Osteoarthritis, for example, is more prevalent in middle-aged women. On the other hand, gout is more common in men than in women.

Sedentary Lifestyle

An inactive lifestyle can also be a contributing factor to the development of arthritis. Without exercise, the joints and bones become weak. A sedentary lifestyle usually goes hand-in-hand with obesity.

Effects of Glutathione on the Causes of Arthritis

Glutathione is not well known amongst doctors let alone a household word, however, do a search on the National Library of Medicine PubMed and you will find over 90,000 articles on glutathione (also known as GSH).

Glutathione and Arthritis

At Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands, rheumatologists proved that by increasing the glutathione levels in affected tissues, that inflammation at the cellular level showed definite improvement.

Since the causes of arthritis are chronic inflammation, scientists have proven that by raising the glutathione levels in the immune system, inflammation could be minimized or prevented.

Known as the master antioxidant, some of the benefits of Glutathione not only alleviates some of the causes of arthritis by boosting the immune system which in turn reduces inflammation, but also provides other benefits like lowering blood cholesterol and over 60 other different diseases.

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Arthritis Treatment - Arthritis Remedies And Causes

Arthritis is one of the most enveloping diseases in the United States and is the leading source of disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention one out of every three Americans is affected by one of the more than 100 sorts of arthritis. Arthritis merely means a aching condition of the joints. There are different kinds of the disease - many seditious and others more degenerative in nature. Across the world there are 350 million people bears from the constant joint inflammation of Arthritis. In US the number goes to the 37 to 40 million. All of us be familiar with that there must the joint pain that is accompanied by the arthritis

Arthritis symptoms

Ache and inflexibility in the joints, anemia, colitis

The main symptoms of osteoarthritis are ache and firmness in the joints. The pain frequently increases after work out. Rheumatoid arthritis is often called the 'cooked food ailment'. lt regularly develops gradually over several months, with persistent pain and stiffness in one or additional joints. Finally the whole body is affected. Symptoms contain anemia, colitis, constipation, deformed hands and feet.

Root of Arthritis

Structural changes in articular cartilage in the joint

Osteoarthritis results from structural changes in the articular cartilage in the joints, frequently those which are weight-bearing, such as the spine and knees.

Hormonal disparity, physical and emotional strain

Rheumatoid arthritis is due to an soreness of the synovium or lining of the joints. This is accompanied by puffiness and eventually leads to irregularity. The situation may be caused by hormonal disparity, physical and emotional stress, infection, cruel fright, shock, and injury.

Genetics

Family factors may also be responsible for the onset of this disease

Home Remedies for Arthritis

1. Arthritis treatment by means of Potato Juice

The raw potato juice treatment is considered one of the most victorious biological treatments for rheumatic and arthritic situations. It has been used in folk medicine for over centuries. The conventional technique of preparing potato juice is to cut a medium-sized potato into thin slices, without peeling the skin, and put the slices overnight in a big glass filled with cold water. The water should be drunk in the sunrise on an empty stomach.. A medium-sized potato must be diluted with a cup of water and drunk first thing in the morning.

2. Arthritis treatment with Other Raw Juices

One cup of green juice, extracted from any green leafy vegetable, diverse in equal size with carrot, celery, and red beet juices is superior for arthritis. The alkaline action of raw juices dissolves the gathering of deposits around the joints and in extra tissues. A cup of fresh pineapple juice is also precious, as the enzyme bromelain in fresh pineapple juice reduces swelling and inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Arthritis treatment via Sesame Seeds

A teaspoon of black sesame seeds, drenched in a quarter cup of water and kept overnight, has been found to be efficient in preventing frequent joint pains. The water in which the seeds are soaked must also be taken along with the seeds first thing in the morning

4. Arthritis treatment by means of Copper

Drinking water kept overnight in a copper container accumulates traces of copper, which is said to build up the muscular system. A copper ring or bracelet is worn for the same cause.

5. Arthritis treatment with Calcium

Studies have exposed that calcium can help arthritis. Several patients have discovered that joint pains have either been reassured or have disappeared entirely after taking calcium. This mineral must be taken in the form of calcium lactate. Two teaspoons of calcium lactate, each teaspoon providing 400 mg of absorbable calcium, may be taken three times each day in water, before meals for at least four months.

6. Arthritis treatment via Garlic

Garlic is an additional successful remedy for arthritis. It contains an anti-inflammatory property, which accounts for its efficiency in the treatment of this disease. Garlic may be taken raw or cooked according to person preference

7. Arthritis treatment via Bananas

Bananas, being a rich source of vitamin B6, have proved helpful in the treatment of arthritis. A diet of merely bananas for three or four days is advised in treating this situation. The patient may eat eight or nine bananas daily throughout this period and nothing else.

8. Arthritis treatment with Lime

Lime has also been found useful as a home remedy for arthritis. The citric acid found in lime is a solvent of uric acid, which is the chief cause of some types of arthritis. The juice of one lime, diluted with water, may be taken once a day, if possible first thing in the morning.

9. Arthritis treatment with Alfalfa

A tea made from the herb alfalfa, particularly from its seeds, has shown useful results in the treatment of arthritis. One teaspoon of alfalfa seeds might be added to one cup of water. Three to four cups of this tea must be taken daily by arthritics for at least two weeks.

10. Arthritis treatment by means of Green Gram Soup

Another home remedy found helpful in relieving pains in the joints is the use of green gram soup. This soup must be prepared by mixing a tablespoon of green gram in a cup of water, with two crushed garlic cloves. It must be taken two times a day

11. Arthritis treatment via Castor Oil

Treatment with Castor oil has been found helpful in arthritis. The process, as prescribed by a Spanish doctor, is to boil two tablespoons of Castor oil over a stove burner. The oil must then be poured into a glass of fresh orange juice and taken before breakfast each day till the disease is cured. It was advised to patients to take it for three weeks, stay for another three weeks and then do it again for another three weeks. It is, though, essential that the patient must take an alkaline diet while adopting this form of treatment otherwise the value of the treatment will be gone.

12. Arthritis treatment via Coconut or Mustard Oil

Warm coconut oil or mustard oil, mixed with two or three pieces of camphor must be massaged on rigid and aching joints. It will amplify blood supply, and decrease inflammation and stiffness with the calm warmth produced while massaging.

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Arthritis Causes and Risks

It is often extremely hard to determine the specific cause of arthritis as there are so many potential contributing factors to the condition. Further to this, some forms of arthritis have no known cause making it even more challenging to discover effective arthritis treatment.

People who are overweight may also be more susceptible to arthritis- as more pressure is being placed on the joints, which overtime can lead to arthritis. For this reason, arthritis in overweight persons is often located in the hip or knee regions, where the majority of the pressure is placed. Trauma to the joint can cause joint irregularities affecting the joint's smooth surface, which can make bones grind against each other causing pain when moved. For instance, a fracture in the tibial plateau wherein the part of the bone enters a knee cartilage can result in arthritis.

Genetics is most certainly a risk factor involved, however it is difficult to determine how much it directly affects the condition. Doctor's do know that there are some variations in genes which make the more susceptible to the arthritis condition. Age is obviously also another contributing factor- simply down to the fact that as people get older their bones become more brittle and stiff- and thus more likely to suffer from arthritis. The bones in older people also have difficulty healing and repairing them, making it easier for the arthritis condition to manifest.

It has also been proven that stress is a considerable contributing factor in the cause of arthritis. Stress disrupts the natural balance and harmony of the body. Cortisone deficiency induced by stress can weaken the body's immune systems, thus resulting in the spread of harmful organisms such as bacteria throughout one's body.

Certain jobs also place people in a higher risk category of arthritis. Usually, these are physically demanding jobs such as constructions workers and factory workers. There are also some sports that can contribute to the causes of arthritis, especially rough contact sports where athletes are always at a risk of getting an injury and, subsequent, arthritis. Illnesses or Infections can also be causes of arthritis. Specifically body builders or weight lifters are at considerable risk of arthritis in later life- due to the excessive pressure placed consistently upon their joints. Injuries can also be common causes for arthritis. The disease can develop in people who suffer from joint infections or multiple gout attacks, among other conditions.

There are many different forms and variations of the arthritis condition. For example, osteoarthritis is usually a result of old age or the normal wear and tear of joints, cartilages and bones. Osteoarthritis is very common in people over the age of fifty. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand differs, as it has no specific cause or causes but some studies show that genetic makeup and immunological disorders can lead to the disease.

It is always advised to visit your doctor or recommended physician if symptoms of your arthritis persist. The most important thing one can do is to receive an early diagnosis with arthritis. The arthritis treatment will be more effective, if your doctor can prescribe a treatment in the early stages of the arthritis condition.

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An Overview - Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms, Causes and Prevention

There is a misconception that arthritis has been causing trouble for hundreds of years but experts say it is actually a rather modern disease. There is, for example, very little evidence of arthritic damage found in human remains before the year 1700 and even in Egyptian mummified remains.

These days, however, arthritis incidents are on the rise, affecting millions of people around the world. In the United States alone, there are more than 40 million Americans who suffer from some form of arthritis and if no measures are taken to control it, the number of people affected by it may continue to rise.

Who Gets Arthritis?

Arthritis is not a gender-specific disease and it can affect people regardless of their race, location or socio-economic level. Anybody can get arthritis but it often appears in adults and older people. Arthritis affects not just humans but animals as well. Dogs in their older years, for example, have an increased risk of canine rheumatoid arthritis while older cats may develop feline arthritis. When this happens, it is often necessary that animals are placed under veterinary care and symptoms treated with medications and therapy.

Symptoms Of Arthritis

There are over 100 different types of arthritis and they are often characterized by swelling, stiffness and pain in the joints. In rheumatoid arthritis, for example, white blood cells can develop rapidly in the synovial membrane found in the cartilage of the joints and result in pain and inflammation, making it difficult to move the joint. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage becomes damaged, which may be replaced by painful bone outgrowths.

Common Types Of Arthritis

The most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Almost all types of arthritis are noninfectious although there are some which may be spread.

Lyme disease, an inflammatory form that can be transmitted by tick bites, is spread through bacterial infection. If it's untreated, it can lead to inflammation of the joints, specifically the knees. This form, like other infectious arthritis types, can be cured with antibiotics.

Preventing Arthritis

Some forms of arthritis, such as gout and infectious arthritis, can be prevented through diet and care. Gout, for example, is often the result of excessive intake of foods containing uric acid, which result in the deposition of crystals in the joints. These crystals cause the pain and inflammation associated with this form of arthritis.

Diet And Arthritis

Maintaining a good diet is doubly beneficial for arthritis because it helps shed extra pounds and eases the pressure off the joints which helps relieve the pain. Avoiding certain foods, such as high-fat meats and organ meats have also shown some promise in relieving inflammation.

Aside from having a healthy diet, using supplements may also help. Vitamins, minerals and other supplements such as fish oils may be helpful in ensuring that the body is healthy. Antioxidants may also be used to encourage cell repair.

Is There A Cure For Arthritis?

Unless what you have is an infectious form, don't expect for a cure because none has been discovered yet. However, it can be treated and symptoms can be managed. Treatment consists of medications and therapy that will reduce the symptoms of arthritis and allow the patient better joint mobility and relieve pain, regardless of which area of the body is affected.

Most medications are in the form of pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Depending on the form of arthritis, drugs that retard the disease's progress may also be prescribed.

Treatment For Arthritis

Drugs are often prescribed to help relieve the symptoms often associated with arthritis, especially if they are severe. Physical therapy might also be used in order to improve mobility of the affected area, especially the knees, ankles, hands, neck and fingers.

Mild, low-impact exercises are preferable to heavy exercises because they are easier on the joints. Exercises such as yoga, tai chi and walking are beneficial. Water exercises are also an excellent option. For arthritis of the hands where the thumb and fingers are affected, special exercises may be performed regularly in order to maintain the hand's ability to flex.

An End To Pain?

Ending pain is often the goal of arthritis treatment. However, it doesn't have to be the only thing you should have in mind when dealing with arthritis. Effective treatment often goes beyond just providing relief when pain occurs. It is often a matter of addressing the problem at its roots and not just performing corrective measures when the problems begin. This is why it's important for patients to know that managing arthritis is not just about stopping pain but also preventing it.

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Dogs and Arthritis - Symptoms and Causes

Arthritis in dogs is a degenerative disease that causes stiffness in the joints and muscles, limiting the dog's mobility. Although it varies in severity, in some cases arthritis in dogs can be extremely painful, just like it can be in people. And arthritis in dogs is a very common condition, afflicting up to one in every three to four dogs. That's why information about dogs and arthritis is so important. Keep reading for some valuable information on the symptoms of arthritis in dogs, as well as what causes it.

Dogs and Arthritis: The Causes

This potentially very painful condition is common in older dogs because over time, wear and tear affects the joints. Younger dogs can also develop arthritis, although less frequently. Unlike the arthritis in older dogs that is often caused by ordinary wear and tear, accidents, injuries and certain infections, diseases and other health conditions like joint malformations (hip dysplasia, for example) are usually responsible for arthritis occurring in younger dogs. Arthritis can also be insidious in the sense that it might not become apparent for several years following an injury.

Although there are several forms of arthritis, the underlying cause of each type is inflammation in a joint. The different types of arthritis are categorized by what originally caused this inflammation.

Degenerative joint disease, frequently called osteoarthritis, is far and away the most common form of arthritis in dogs. Frequently associated with aging (as it is in people), osteoarthritis typically develops over the course of time. Ordinary wear and tear or injury to a joint can damage the joint's ligaments and/or cartilage and reduce the production of the synovial fluid that lubricates and protects the bones. The ultimate result is joint tissue degeneration, stiffness and pain. Cartilage damage and subsequent arthritis can also be caused by excessive weight, jumping too frequently over obstacles, tearing or stretching ligaments during vigorous exercise, and joint malformations such as hip dysplasia or "loose" kneecaps, among other things.

The mechanism underlying the second main type of arthritis, called inflammatory joint disease, is different than the mechanical stress or trauma that's responsible for degenerative joint disease. It is also much less common than osteoarthritis. This form of canine arthritis can be caused by a bacterial infection (staphylococcus or streptococcus, for example), a tick-borne disease such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever or a fungal infection in a joint, but it can also be caused by auto-immune disorders, some of which are hereditary. Rheumatoid arthritis is one example of arthritis caused by an auto-immune disorder, but fortunately it is rare in dogs. Arthritis resulting from an auto-immune disorder usually affects multiple joints.

Inflammatory joint disease is often characterized by systemic symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite and a generalized, overall stiffness. Unlike the form of arthritis that degenerative joint disease typically causes, which usually has a slow, gradual onset, the appearance of arthritis symptoms due to inflammatory joint disease is usually sudden and acute.

Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs

The symptoms of arthritis in dogs are in general analogous to those of arthritis in humans, if you take into account the differences in anatomy. They can vary in severity from being barely detectable to being crippling and debilitating. Obviously, dogs cannot tell you they're hurting, and most do not show any visible signs of pain until it becomes significant. These factors can make it difficult to accurately diagnose arthritis unless X-rays, an orthopedic exam and other more specific tests are performed by a qualified vet. You should never assume that your dog has arthritis just because it comes up lame one day or gets up slowly or stiffly after sleeping all night. Although it's true that those symptoms could mean your dog has arthritis, they also might be signs of an entirely different health condition. Always take your dog to your veterinarian for assessment, diagnosis and treatment.

Notwithstanding the difficulty of making an accurate diagnosis, dogs suffering from arthritis typically exhibit one or more of the following symptoms of arthritis in dogs:

Slower gait: Dogs afflicted with arthritis often walk slowly in an attempt to balance out their limbs, especially when more than one joint is affected.

Dropped hip or nodding head: When only one hip is affected, the dog will often "drop" that hip so that it is carried physically lower than the other. A dog with an arthritic neck will often exhibit a nodding motion of the head.

Limping: A dog with an arthritic joint in a leg will naturally tend to favor that leg.

Reluctance to engage in normal activities: Dogs with arthritis tend to be reluctant to perform what were previously normal activities, such as climbing up or down stairs, running, jumping up on furniture, playing with balls or other toys, and going on walks. When they do go on walks, they often lag behind because they prefer to walk slowly.

Slowness or difficulty in rising from resting positions: Getting up slowly or stiffly after lying down is one of the fairly common symptoms of arthritis in dogs.

Personality changes: Some dogs with arthritis undergo changes in their personality. Becoming lethargic, depressed, nervous or overly aggressive are examples of the changes in temperament that can occur in dogs afflicted by arthritis. And, a previously very affectionate dog that loved physical attention from its owner may start resisting being touched.

Audible signals of distress: A dog that's in significant pain may yelp, whimper or cry when it's touched or it moves in a certain way.

Watching a dog that's suffering from arthritis pain can be heart-wrenching. Although arthritis is not a health condition that can ever be completely cured, there are a number of things you can do to help your dog suffer less from painful arthritis symptoms. We hope this information on dogs and arthritis will help both you and your dog.

It is such a pain for a dog owner to see his four-legged best friend suffering from Arthritis

It really is heartbreaking however we all know that there is a good chance that one day or another our dog will experience this kind of disorder.

Many dog owners are not aware of all the different ailments that a dog can encounter in his life-span, and most important, the different causes and symptoms that could be very helpful to diagnose these conditions before they become major ones.

I created AboutDogsandpets.com to help dog owners to learn what are these different symptoms, so you will be much more reactive when such disorders occur, and then get the peace of mind that comes from being prepared!

AboutDogsandPets.com is the all-in-one solution for all your dog health and dog training concerns.

I would be very surprised if you do not find an answer at AboutDogsandPets.com.

Wish you the best with your furry friend.

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