Graves Disease And Rheumatoid Arthritis

Do you have Graves disease? If so, then you must be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis as well. Graves disease and rheumatoid arthritis are two diseases that are linked to each other. One common symptom of patients suffering from this disease is a fine tremor in their hands and fingers. Incidentally, this is also a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis.

Graves disease is an autoimmune disease. It is a health problem wherein a person's immune system attacks the thyroid glands. And consequently, it causes the same gland to produce too much thyroxin hormone. It is usually referred to as hyperthyroidism's most common form.

The similarity between the two is the fact that they are both autoimmune diseases. Like Graves disease, rheumatoid arthritis is a problem with the immune system, causing chronic inflammation on the joints. A person with rheumatoid arthritis has his joints being attacked by the antibodies, thinking that they are detrimental to the body processes.

But of course, either the thyroid glands or the ligaments of the joints they aren't harmful to one's health at all. But both of them moves the body's immune system to think and work otherwise. The antibodies, instead of attacking bacteria and viruses, end up destroying the glands and the parts that are needed by the body to function.

As such, Graves disease and rheumatoid arthritis [http://graves-disease-treatment.blogspot.com/2007/09/best-treatment-for-graves-disease.html] should be treated and cured early on. Because if not, a number of other health complications can be expected. And everybody wants to keep a healthy body. Therefore, it is advisable that you consult with a doctor at once if and when you experience any symptom related to these diseases.

Does Rheumatoid Arthritis Begin in the Intestine?

It's not widely known, but the results of numerous clinical trials over the last 30 years have pointed to an intriguing connection between rheumatoid arthritis and the intestines. As long ago as the 1940s, Charles de Coti-Marsh in his pioneering research into the causes and treatment of arthritis declared 'the disease begins in the bowel.' Nowadays there is increasing evidence that he was right.

Unfortunately, the connection between arthritis and diet has historically been downplayed, with nutrition never quite making the grade as an object of scientific study. More recently, however, the development of nutritional biochemistry. immunology and pharmacology, as well as ever increasing scientific data on free-radical disease, antioxidants, prostaglandins, and flavonoids have lifted the subject of nutrition out of the realm of anecdotal uncertainty into the province of credible science.

In Joints and Arthritic Disease (2002), Dr Gail Darlington references a number of research projects, for example a study by O'Farrelly which took small intestinal biopsies from 93 patients with rheumatic arthritis (RA) and compared them to those of a control group. The conclusion was that the gut may play a part in the immunopathogenesis of certain cases of RA.

The combination of the development of certain types of gut flora and an increased permeability of the intestine (allowing potentially harmful bacterial antigens into the blood stream) seems to be the key issue. Darlington notes that 'RA patients untreated by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have normal gastrointestinal permeability, but patients on NSAIDs and perhaps also on disease modifying antirheumatic drugs show increased permeability. Such increased permeability may allow food or bacterial antigens to be absorbed in greater quantities than usual, overwhelming normal gut defences and, possibly producing symptoms of RA.'

What that means is that dietary manipulation could, in theory, reduce gastrointestinal permeability, with reduced absorption bacterial antigens - and perhaps treat one of the causes of rheumatoid arthritis. Despite these findings, and others like them, making dietary changes in order to treat arthritis is considered to be 'alternative', in other words unacceptable to the majority of the orthodox medical community.

Does rheumatoid arthritis begin in the intestine? Quite possibly - there is some evidence to support the theory. However, 'alternative' theories rarely attract commercial interests, which is of course the prime source of research funding. It therefore remains to be seen whether complementary and alternative therapies will ever achieve the status of 'proven' as required by Western science.

Elizabeth Hartland,
Nutritional Therapist,
The Arthritic Association

Joint Pain Stiffness Remedies - Reduce Pain and Inflammation Naturally

Joint pain stiffness is the most common outcome of arthritis, a bone degenerative disease that is mostly associated with aging. This condition is followed by moderate to acute pain with gradual decrease in the normal mobility. Joint pain stiffness is felt at the start of the day when the joints remain immobile due to long hours of sleep and the stiffness reduce gradually with slow movements throughout the day. But in severe cases of arthritis acute joint pains may cause enough sleep disturbances demanding immediate medical attention. In case of inflammatory arthritis like Rheumatoid arthritis, the joint stiffness may last for about 45 minutes and in osteoarthritis stiffness lasts for 30 minutes.

Causes of joint stiffness and pain

Inflammation of the synovium, which is a thin membrane surrounding the joints cause joint stiffness that leads to pain. Many underlying causes are responsible for this inflammation that is very bothering.

1. Osteoarthritis causes joint pain stiffness.
2. Autoimmune disease like Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint stiffness.
3. Gout
4. Chondromalacia
5. Bursitis
6. Injury
7. Infectious diseases
8. Over straining and exertion of the joints.
9. Tendonitis

Treatment

1. Application of cold packs and heat treatment are generally adopted in reducing joint pain and stiffness. The cold pack relaxes the nerves and the hot compress enhances the blood circulation. Applying hot and cold packs alternately every 5 minutes gives best results.

2. Medications include the administration of NSAID's, steroids and narcotic drugs to provide relief from the joint stiffness and pain. Corticosteroids are applied in controlled doses regulated by experienced practitioners that also reduce the joint inflammation along with the pain. Narcotic drugs help in reducing the pain but not the inflammation. Common pain relieving drugs those are used are aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, Tylenol, morphine etc.

3. Nothing can match the overall benefits of regular exercising in treating joint pain and stiffness. Exercise strengthens the joints and the muscles, reduces the wear and tear of the bones and cartilage and helps in controlling the body weight.

Alternative Remedies or Treatment

Many people are turning towards alternative medicines and modes of treatment to avoid the serious side effects of pain relieving medications. These medicines which come as natural supplements through daily diet and common ingredients are highly effective and also produce multi benefits in maintaining good health.

1. Massaging the affected joints with herbal oils like eucalyptus and wintergreen helps in reducing the pain.
2. Extracts of Arnica taken in measured doses produces good results in treating this condition.
3. Green tea helps in reducing arthritis pain.
4. Tea from alfalfa seeds also reduces the inflammation and pain.
5. Ginger is also helpful in reducing inflammation.
6. Turmeric is widely used in reducing this pains.

Gouty Arthritis Symptoms - Oh My Aching Big Toe!

Gouty Arthritis - Do You Have It?

The joints in your big toe have been hurting really bad, and you've noticed that it has turned warm, red, and seems to be swelling. For a while, you ignore the pain, and thankfully it disappears for a while, only to come back at odd times with a vengeance. If you're no longer too young, but just young at heart, then chances are, you may want to go see your doctor and ask if you might have symptoms of gouty arthritis.

This kind of arthritis is just one of the more than 100 types of diseases in this category. However, gouty arthritis is one of the most painful among these and is caused by needle-like crystals of uric acid that form in your joints (usually, in this disease, the big toe, although other joints can be affected as well, like the heel, elbow, knees, wrists, fingers, etc.). So, if you can imagine those "needle-like crystals" pricking your joints, then you can understand why there is so much pain involved in this disease.

Gouty arthritis has four stages, namely:

1.Asymptomatic - At this stage, the person may have tested to have elevated levels of uric acid, probably in a general medical screening, but is not experiencing any pain in any joints. The doctor usually will not prescribe any treatment at this stage, but may suggest some diet changes to prevent the condition from worsening.

2.Acute Gout - At this stage, the person begins to feel pain, and swelling and redness of the joints, leading to what is called as a "gouty attack". These attacks can happen intermittently. It is a good idea to visit your doctor once you feel any acute pain in the joint area to prevent the disease from progressing.

3.Interval - This is the "interval" between gouty attacks, when a person is not experiencing any pain at the moment. Many people mistakenly think that the worst is over when they are in an interval stage and refuse to visit the doctor. What they don't know is that this is exactly what it is named, an interval, and there may be an attack waiting just around the corner.

4.Chronic Gout - When there is no or very short interval between attacks, and there is already permanent damage to the joints. Constant pain medication is needed for this type of gout and it is essential that a physician oversee this disease at this stage. If proper treatment is adhered to in the Acute Gout stage, then one may never progress to this stage.

How is Gouty Arthritis diagnosed?

If you think you are already are experiencing the attacks, when you visit the doctor, then chances are, he may ask for any one or all of the following tests:

1.Synovial Fluid Analysis - Synovial (joint) fluid is extracted from your joints through a sterilized needle inserted in the space. The fluid has a straw-like color and is then analyzed in a lab. Normally, joint fluids that look cloudy or is thick may be abnormal.

2.Uric Acid Test - This is done through a simple blood test taken from a vein or capillary. The blood is then tested for levels of uric acid. If it is high then it will confirm gouty arthritis

3.Joint X-ray - An x-ray of the joint may also be needed to properly see how the arthritis has progressed in the area.

How is Gouty Arthritis treated?

Treatment of gouty arthritis is usually geared toward immediate relief and stopping the pain and inflammation that come with the attacks. Medication is also given to prevent future attacks.

One of the drugs prescribed to reduce the pain, inflammation and swelling is Colchicine and often makes the pain settle in 12 to 48 hours. This medication decreases the inflammation and therefore the pain, but it does not alter the uric acid levels in the blood, although daily use of it helps to prevent subsequent attacks.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be effective if it is taken at the onset of the pain.

At times, a diet low in purines is given to lessen the uric acid levels. Some foods that may have to be abstained from are beef, pork, poultry, fish, shellfish, gravy, soda pop, beer, wine, etc.

Be Alert to Hallux Valgus Deformity Symptoms

Be alert to hallux valgus deformity symptoms. Just as you would be alert to symptoms of some other disorder or illness, you should pay careful attention to anything out of the ordinary with your feet or toes. We tend to forget about our feet and toes, until it's time for another trip to our favorite nail salon to make sure our feet look pretty. We forget that our feet bear the burden of our whole body whenever we are upright off the bed or couch. Once we are walking, our feet are carrying a heavy load. This makes learning the symptoms of this foot disorder a smart, pro-active move. This is especially so if you are a woman and you wear shoes that you know don't really give your toes enough room. If there is a history of bunions in your family, then you must be even more alert.

The symptoms of hallux valgus show up in a variety of ways, but the most obvious way is the leaning of the big toe toward the other toes. If you notice that your big toe isn't quite straight and seems to be curving toward the toe next to it, you need to become proactive right away. Don't take the chance of thinking that you are just imagining things because of your tight shoes, and that all you have to do is kick them off and then you won't see any signs of leaning. If you wear tight shoes often, that leaning will become a permanent condition.

If you have any kind of pain in the metatarsophalangeal joint, which is at the base of the big toe, then you are experiencing another symptom of hallux valgus deformity. Pain in this big toe joint, along with the turning of your big toe toward the others, no matter how slight, is a serious, almost foolproof indication of the development of a bunion.

Redness in this toe area and swelling are additional symptoms that go along with the hallux valgus, although these symptoms could also be caused by other problems, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or hopefully something more minor, such as damage to the skin or tendons. So, in and of themselves, redness and swelling could indicate one of the above mentioned problems. The most important symptoms that indicates hallux valgus deformity is the turning of your toe and pain in the metatarsophalangeal joint. Unfortunately, since hallux valgus deformity is a progressive disorder, it will get worse if you do not become proactive right away. This fact increases the importance of finding out what is really causing your symptoms. Find out if the redness and swelling are from hallux valgus, or from one the other other conditions mentioned above, each of which would also required immediate medical attention, as well.

The genetic factor for bunions is not always emphasized enough, due to the necessary emphasis on tight shoes. Heredity plays a part when certain kinds of bone structure in the feet, such as flat feet, are inherited. So, it's important to not forget that you are at greater risk if other people in your family suffer from this foot disorder. In this case, you must be even more vigilant and pay attention to any symptoms of hallux valgus deformity you notice.

Living with Arthritis Pain

One of the most important factors of living with arthritis is learning to successfully manage the joint pain and stiffness that inevitably comes along with the disease. Luckily we live in a time period where there are many good treatment options for arthritis pain ranging from over-the-counter creams to prescription injections which can actually help to stop the disease's progression. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise, may also help to decrease arthritis pain.

For mild arthritis pain, an over-the-counter cream or non-prescription analgesic may be all you need. There are a variety of capsaicin creams on the market that seem to temporarily relieve mild arthritis pain. Although they generally have a combination of ingredients which includes capsaicin, which is the ingredient in chili peppers that makes them hot. When applied to the skin, these creams deplete a pain neurotransmitter called substance P. This temporarily desensitizes the area to pain. The relief from these creams is temporary and the product must be reapplied regularly. Also over-the-counter products like acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen are also excellent for reducing swelling or inflammation of arthritic joints.

If your arthritis pain becomes more severe and begins to interfere with your daily routine, your doctor may prescribe a prescription medicine to help your condition. These medicines can range from prescription strength non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to medicines containing a narcotic pain relief agent if your doctor feels your arthritis pain is severe enough.

There are several treatment options available for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is the form of where the body's immune system attacks the joints causing arthritis. Doctors can also prescribe immunosuppressant drugs which will help slow the body's attack on itself. New drugs called biologics are also available for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Biologics can decrease arthritis pain in those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

Your arthritis doctor will probably also talk to you about lifestyle changes that can help relieve your arthritis pain. These lifestyle changes can include things such as rest and relaxation, proper diet and exercise. Contrary to popular belief, exercise is important for those suffering from arthritis. Range of motion exercises can help relieve joint stiffness as well as maintaining normal joint movement.

Weight-bearing or strengthening exercises help increase muscle strength which in turn protects and supports the joints. Aerobic exercises can help those suffering from arthritis lose weight, which helps by taking stress off injured joints. Some studies also show aerobic exercises may actually help to reduce joint inflammation associated with arthritis.

There are many things you can do to help you live successfully with your arthritis pain. These things include activities, such as exercise, or rest and relaxation. You may also choose an over-the-counter pain medication or ointment to help relieve aches and pains. In the case that your arthritis pain becomes severe, your doctor may prescribe a prescription pain medication to help ease your aches. Whatever form or severity of arthritis pain you have, there is a treatment option available to help you live successfully with your condition.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - What It Is

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory, chronic disease that affects multiple joints. Some of the common characteristics includes periods of inflammation/exacerbation then remission. Usually the small joints are affected first, with a symmetrical joint involvement e.g. right and left fingers simultaneously etc.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Process

Synovial membrane thickens, becoming increasingly vascularised and filled with inflammatory cells. This build up of tissue is very aggressive, and can cause:
- erosion of cartilage and subchondral bone
- infiltrates tendon sheaths and disrupts its mechanisms, limiting gliding effect, and can lead to tendon rupture
- goes into the space of connective tissues
- nerve compressions of the sensory or motor nerve especially in tight compartments

This results in pain, joint instability, contractures, weakness of the muscles and even deformity or subluxation. There is usually a varying degrees and levels of damage, pain and functional levels. The perception and actual damage can determine the ultimate function and mobility of each individual. Patients with better pain tolerance and education and hope usually end up with better results and function.

Phases Of Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease

There are three phases of rheumatoid arthritis: acute, sub-acute and chronic. Their characteristics are:

Acute: lots of inflammation, swelling, pain in joints, elevated temperature
Sub-acute: lesser activity and easier to be controlled by medication, more stable but demonstrates that disease is progressing
Chronic: during this stage, the disease is no longer active, but at this point there will be residual biomechanical problems in the joint will cause pain, instability or stiffness

Rheumatoid Arthritis Natural Treatment Discovered

I am a big believer in rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment options. These types of options are aimed at addressing the underlying dysfunction in the body and not just treating the symptoms. This is the real way to true health and helping your disease. RA is the most common autoimmune disease in the world affecting approximately 1% of people. Women are three times more likely to suffer than men. It is sad that finding rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment options can be very difficult.

Generally rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment choices aren't even pointed out instead of medicines in mainstream medicine. The reality that individuals are not really provided an alternative choice to medicines and medicine is unfair. Frequently many people will probably be not aware that a rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment is available. This information will talk about some of the things you are able to put into action directly into your way of life to begin healing the body and restoring your wellbeing. It may be considered a two step course of action. Getting rid of poor food items plus exchanging them with great food items.

The utilization of medications and drugs in the management of RA is absolutely missing the big picture. Drugs are typically dedicated to symptomatic care. And even though alleviating the symptoms is obviously crucial it genuinely misses the greater picture. Symptomatic relief can be had by covering up your symptoms with drugs, even though the true main cause has long been present in the body. Drug treatments do nothing at all to end the true actual reason behind autoimmune diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment can not merely provide symptomatic reduction but will also address the true underlying reason behind your complaint.

Eating modifications are among the several things that will supply rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment. Getting rid of certain known foods that trigger inflammation and cause over activity from the immune system really are a excellent starting place. Should you dismiss these types of food items, it's possible that every day that you are activating your immune system and creating more signs and symptoms for yourself. There's a selection of food items which have been recognized as contributors, however an excellent starting place could be getting rid of wheat along with dairy. I understand these are generally large recommended food groups and also at initially many people believe that it really is impossible. The truth is that it will take some understanding to understand the way to include the dietary plan change. Getting rid of meals is simply one facet of rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment.

When we all have taken out the harmful food products from the diet, we can easily exchange these for wholesome in addition to beneficial foods. In the same way you can find certain foods that increase inflammation, you can find food products that can lower inflammation. Cold water fish is shown to lower inflammation. Additionally, there are several handy food supplements which will help with inflammation and also promoting joint health. Despite the fact that eating habits does play a crucial role in rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment, additionally, there are other factors that will contribute too. Psychological and mental stress can be another part of health that will have an effect on our well being. An all-natural method that addresses both these factors is the best rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment.

Joint Pain Relief For the Obese

How much do you know about rheumatism?

You probably know it's related to pain in the joints. Yes, joints are only one affected area. Therefore, rheumatism is a broad term that also includes inflammation of bones, muscles, tendons and even internal organs. But let's focus only on joint pain with you here.

What Causes Joint Pain?

The two most common causes of joint pain are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Other factors can be sprain, fracture, gout in the big toes, septic arthritis or polyarthritis.

Let's take a closer look at osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA)

It's a condition where spurs grow and cartilage degenerates in the joints, leading to joint pain. It's also known as "wear-and-tear" arthritis. Some symptoms are:

-- The stiffness in the joints disappears within 30 minutes from the time the patient wakes up but aggravates later in the day after repetitive use or after a prolonged inactivity.

-- Starts with one joint.

-- Often happens in large joints or joints related to knee and hip.

-- An affected joint tends to look a little larger than normal. This is due to abnormal growth of the bone next to damaged cartilage.

-- More common than rheumatoid arthritis.

-- Slow and gradual pain.

-- Usually affects older people.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

This is an autoimmune disorder due to the malfunction of certain immune cells in the patient's body which attacks the joints. Hence, he'll encounter the following symptoms:

-- Morning stiffness lasts more than 30 minutes.

-- Warmth, swelling and pain often begins with the small joints of hands and wrists near the palm or the small joints of toes.

-- Affected joints are usually symmetrical such as the same joints on both hands.

-- Can also trigger fever, fatigue, depression, loss of appetite, dry eyes and chest pain.

-- Can lead to joint deformities.

How does Obesity Worsen the Condition?

Although doctors have yet to prove if obesity causes rheumatism, they believe excess weight certainly doesn't help the patients. In fact, they believe obesity will increase the risk of both OA and RA.

That's because the excess weight will add more pressure on the inflamed joints, aggravating the pain, especially in the affected joint areas around knees, spinal cord and hip.

Currently, there are no cures for OA and RA but the treatments can help to relieve pain and improve joint movement so that patients can still go about their daily tasks.

The treatment often comes as a program - medications, physical and occupational therapy, reduction of joint stress and sometimes surgery. But if a patient is also obese, weight loss will inevitably become part of the program.

Right Exercise can Help Obese OA / RA Patient

1. Flexibility exercises help to maintain or improve the flexibility in affected joints and surrounding muscles. This contributes to better posture, reduced risk of injuries and improved function.

2. Strengthening exercises are more vigorous to work muscles a bit harder. Stronger muscles can better support the joints and cushion the shock impact to the painful joint. They also assist in better function and reduce bone loss due to inactivity, inflammatory arthritis and use of certain medications such as corticosteroids.

3. Aerobic exercises such as walking and swimming are good for weight control as they work off the excess fats and replace with useful muscles. For even better fat-burning results, you can engage in anaerobic exercises like strength training. But you must consult your doctor and make sure to have a certified trainer to guide you along such high-intensity exercises that can cause injuries pretty easily.

4. Body awareness exercises improve posture, balance, joint position awareness, coordination and relaxation. This is especially important as the patient's sense of balance and coordination may be impaired due to the illness.

Natural Arthritis Diet for Pain Relief

Stay away from acidic stuff like coffee, tea, sugar and alcohol. You should also cut down on intake of meat and seafood since these are high in cholesterol, saturated fats, salt and toxins. For best results, I suggest you include these natural vegetarian foods as a significant part of your diet:

a) Fruits - avocado

b) Vegetables - spirulina, wheat grass products, carrots, seaweeds, sprouts

c) Whole grains - millet, wheat, brown rice, barley and oats

d) Nuts - pecans

e) Soy and seeds - flaxseed, pumpkin and sesame

This natural diet serves to help you maintain a healthy weight. According to the Arthritis Foundation, for every pound of weight lost, there is a four-pound reduction in the load exerted on the knee for each step taken. Simply put, the less heavy you are, the less pain you suffer.

Last but not least, whether you're suffering from rheumatism or not, sticking to a healthy diet and regular exercise regime are always essential.

What is Spondyloarthropathy?

If you are experiencing joint pain for the first time and have seen a rheumatologist for the first time, you may have received a diagnosis of spondyloarthropathy or spondyloarthrosis. What is it? What type of arthritis do you have?

Your doctor may have given you a vague description or may have said you have some symptoms but they don't quite fit other arthritis diagnoses. That is the case with spondyloarthropathy, usually called undifferentiated spondyloarthropathy. You have some symptoms that fit an arthritis diagnosis, but those symptoms aren't severe enough or in enough parts of your body to allow your doctor to make another diagnosis. The symptoms are enough, however, to allow your doctor to make the diagnosis of spondyloarthropathy.

This diagnosis is often a starting point for patients. As you work with your doctor and he or she gets to know you and your symptoms better, he or she may change your diagnosis. As your symptoms develop, he or she may also change your diagnosis. The results of your lab tests and imaging tests may also affect your diagnosis. It often takes several visits to the doctor and many tests before an arthritis diagnosis is confirmed. This is especially true of a seronegative diagnosis, where no positive results are found in your blood and your diagnosis is made on symptoms and physical changes.

A diagnosis of spondyloarthropathy often is changed later on to a diagnosis of one of the spondyloarthritis diseases, including ankylosing spondylitis, psoriac arthritis, or several others. Symptoms of spondyloarthropathy may also be similar to rheumatoid arthritis and your diagnosis may be changed to this later on as well.

Some people with this diagnosis never develop more advanced symptoms and they continue to be treated for undifferentiated spondyloarthropathy. Symptoms are usually chronic and regular, but are not severe. Treatment involves conservative medication, plus pain management techniques including plenty of rest, regular exercise, and energy conservation techniques.

Receiving this diagnosis may be frustrating, but remember that accurate medical management of arthritis takes time and patience. For more information on spondyloarthropathy and the spondylitis family of arthritic diseases, visit the Spondylitis Association of America at http://www.spondylitis.org

How Can Fresh Pineapple Help Arthritis?

All fresh fruits including pineapple are packed with enzymes however pineapple is well known for being packed with an enzyme called bromelain. This gives the fruit some amazing natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Of course like most fruits it's bursting with vitamin C. They are second only to bananas as America's favorite tropical fruit.

It is this the enzyme bromelain that makes pineapple useful in treating bruises, sprains and strains by reducing swelling, tenderness and pain. This anti-inflammatory property will help in relieving osteo-arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms as well as reducing post-operative swelling. Bromelain also acts as a digestive enzymes aiding in protein digestion. Most of the bromelain is concentrated in the core of the pineapple and for this reason I always add the stem to my smoothies. Pineapple is also known to help with fluid retention.

To gain the benefit of bromelain as an anti-inflammatory or as a digestive enzyme, it is important to know that enzymes are very sensitive to light and temperatures especially heat. So any commercially bought pineapple products will be dead so to speak, the enzymes will have been destroyed. This goes for bought juices, canned, frozen, and dried pineapple.

When choosing a fresh pineapple color isn't necessarily a good indicator of ripeness, some are in their prime when still green, it depends on the variety, ranging from green to yellow. The most important factor in determining ripeness is aroma let your nose help you decide. Ripe pineapples give off a sweet, fresh tropical smell. Avoid pineapples that give off a slightly alcoholic smell, they are too ripe and are fermenting. Avoid pineapples with soft spots or areas of dark discoloration. Eat pineapple at room temperature to appreciate their full flavor.

Pineapple "Rum Pud"
One or two pineapples
Add fresh mango (or frozen - you prepared when they were in season)
Fresh Ginger
Thick coconut milk
A dash or two of rum
A banana or two
Leave the leaves on the pineapple and cut a pineapple in half length ways. Scoop or cut out the flesh leaving the pineapple halves in tack to use as containers. Cut up the flesh into cubes removing the stem. Put the pineapple into a bowl, add freshly grated ginger to taste, thick coconut milk and a little rum, slice or chop up bananas and mix all ingredients together. Place the ingredients back into the pineapple halves and serve immediately.

Pineapple makes a very good addition to smoothies, with papaya, some pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, and a banana. Besides being high in bromelain and vitamin C, pineapples are also a rich source of beta carotene, potassium, vitamin B-1 (cofactor in enzymatic reactions vital to energy production, vitamin B-2, iron, fiber, manganese (co-factor in a number of enzymes needed for energy production and anti-oxidant defense), omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and some friendly bacteria.

Do you know? The part of the fruit closest to the base of the fruit has more sugar content and therefore a sweeter taste and more tender texture than the upper part of the fruit.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia syndrome is somewhat similar to chronic fatigue syndrome in the sense that both are chronic diseases. However, Fibromyalgia is characterized by severe pain in specific areas of the body such as neck, shoulders, spine and hips. This disease, unlike chronic fatigue that centers mostly in the joints or muscles and nerves, affects all the pressure points in the body. It also affects the bowel movements in a patient to a large extent. Also, most affected parts in Fibromyalgia syndrome are the chest, ribcage, thighs, knees, hips, lower back, and spine, along with the neck, shoulders, elbow joints, knee joints and arms.

Fibromyalgia syndrome is sometimes used synonymously to chronic fatigue syndrome, although they are both not exactly the same kind of disease. The reason for this error is the similar symptoms faced in both these complications. Just as in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, patients suffering from Fibromyalgia syndrome tend to face extreme tiredness, fatigue, lack of concentration, restlessness, inability to recollect certain events, and so on. Along with this, soreness in certain pressure points; muscular cramps; spasms; weakness in the whole body or specific joints; severe headaches; numbness in certain areas such as hands and feet; tingles throughout the body like the kind that occur right after a cramp release or release from numbness; and more are also frequently observed in patients suffering from Fibromyalgia. Slight fever might be noticed in most of the cases, just like in patients suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Other symptoms that are frequently found in Fibromyalgia syndrome patients are severe depression and anxiety attacks. Although the same can be found in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome patients, the severity is considerably more in the Fibromyalgia syndrome patients due to more suffering because of this disease.

In Fibromyalgia syndrome severe shooting or radiating pain can be observed in certain pressure points, unlike in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome wherein the patient has a constant niggling pain in most of the body parts. The pain can be bone deep and palpations of those pressure points increase the pain to extreme levels, causing anxiety and depression attacks in the patient. Stiffness and aches in the body soon after the person wakes up can be related to this disease. However, some patients might even face the pain in the evenings or throughout the day and the severity can range from mild to extremely severe depending on the weather, stress and anxiety in all these patients. Fibromyalgia syndrome patients experience pain similar to the one noticed in rheumatoid arthritis patients, with no external swelling in spite of severe pain.

Since no specific reason has been detected for Fibromyalgia syndrome attacks, treatment can vary from case to case. Usually, treatment with altered lifestyle, counseling, education about the disease and physiotherapy can help the patient get rid of this disease completely. But this could work only in the initial stages when the disease is still mild. In other cases the treatment is similar to that of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, in which the patient is often given various medications to counter all the symptoms faced instead of the actual disease.

Elbow Joint Pain - Best Alternative Treatment to NSAID's

Often when a joint pain in the elbow starts, you may put it down to a simple niggle or ache from an old injury or the way you've been leaning or lying, but if you find the pain persisting then it could perhaps be something slightly different.

Obviously mentioning the words like, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or osteoporosis may sound a little extreme as these aren't curable diseases, where as lupus or a bacterial infection are, so one way of detecting what you have is through self-analysising the pain, to see if it is migrating round the body.

If you find the exact same pain suddenly move to a joint in the foot, and then to the wrist or shoulder and so forth, following the nerves around the body then there's a slim chance it might be related any one of the variant forms of arthritis.

If the pain also follows a daytime pattern, so say it comes in around midday, then by the afternoon it's got a little worse, then come evening time it is really starting to unsettle you then should seek a diagnoses straight away, whether it's a bacterial infection or joint disease.

Ways to Treat Elbow Joint Pain

When you visit your local practitioner, after preliminary tests, they will most likely put you on one of the numerous types of NSAID's there are on the market - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

These are most often prescribed to arthritic sufferers and are essentially drugs which reduce the swelling in the joints to relieve the pain.

Sometimes they kick in, other times they won't. If you are on any medication also you won't be allowed to take these due to their inherent health risks.

Celebrax and VIOXX which were once two of the most popular NSAID's in the West have now been removed from shelves after patients began experiencing liver, kidney and heart problems specifically heart palpitations, so bear in mind that these are for short-term use only should you decide to use them

FDA Registered Homeopathic Treatments

Alternatively, if you want to relieve the joint pain in the elbow naturally and not become dependent on these prescription pills, then FDA homeopathic treatments manufactured in pharmaceutical labs in the U.S and Europe are proving to be more popular today than ever before due to the advances they've made over the past few years.

The latest ingredients include Glucosamine Complex, Chondroitin Sulfate and MSM (Methyl-Sulfonyl-Methane).

MSM which is found in plants, animals and humans, works especially well at treating and relieving chronic pain, osteoarthritis, joint inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis.

Glucosamine Complex on the other hand helps provide strength and elasticity to tissues fibers in the cartilage, increasing fluidity to the elbow joint and more cushioning between the joint.

Chondroitin Sulfate another natural substance produced by the body prevents other bacterial enzymes from degrading the building blocks of joint cartilage, therefore it prohibits the cartilage from becoming dry which will cause the joints to rub together and swell.

These 3 ingredients alone are just some of the advantages FDA registered joint pain supplements have as an advantage over NSAID's, not to mention they are completely safe and can be taken long-term.

Defeating Painful Symptoms of Trigger Thumb

Trigger thumb is a common repetitive strain injury that can cause significant impairment in hand strength, dexterity, and daily functioning. The condition is characterized by pain, catching or "locking" of the thumb, and can result in difficulty performing everyday tasks. Although there are many organic causes of trigger thumb, environmental factors (e.g., workplace conditions, repetitive tasks and job demands) usually play a significant role.

Trigger Thumb, or stenosing tenosynovitis, as it is known in the medical world, is the result of acute trauma causing micro-tears or a chronic overuse injury involving the flexor tendon that runs through the thumb. Specifically, the flexor pollicis longus tendon develops nodules or adhesions on it, which in turn leads to increased friction as the tendon passes through the pulley system, resulting in the irritation and swelling of the tendon and the associated nodules on the tendon. This inflammation and irritation increases the size of the nodules or adhesions, causing the dysfunction to greatly increase as the thumb is flexed over and over. Essentially, the nodule or adhesion on the affected tendon in the thumb gets trapped as it passes through the pulley system as the thumb is flexed but the thumb cannot return via extension in the same smooth manner due to the adhesion or nodule getting stuck or "catching" as it tries to pass back through the pulley system. Because of this, the thumb tends to lock down into the palm of the hand as well as produces painful catching or clicking that is commonly associated with Trigger Thumb.

Trigger Thumb is a more common injury in women than men, and it is more often noticed in people that are suffering from chronic illnesses. Rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, for example, are common correlates of Trigger Thumb. The reason for this seems to be caused by the speed in which people heal from injury, and people with chronic disorders like diabetes and arthritis tend to heal at a much slower rate. However, movement also plays a significant role in the manifestation of the malady. Repetitive movements and increased tension, stress and strain on the hands through heavy lifting, typing, and long hours at a steering wheel can lead to Trigger Thumb as well.

There are numerous treatment options for reducing the pain and impairment associated with thumb and finger triggering. Often rest and over-the-counter medications are enough to bring temporary relief and possibly reduce the rate of onset due to reduced irritation and swelling of the tissues. Individuals looking for long-term treatment for Trigger Thumb, however, are advised to consider appropriate stretches and exercises that promote the integrity of the muscles and tendons in the hand and forearm. Stretches that help thin and lengthen the affected tendon and exercises that increase circulation and break down the developing adhesions and nodules, most often formed from scar tissue, are very important. Although surgery is the most used method of treatment, it is far from effective. Non-invasive exercises promoting the stretching of the flexor tendons and strengthening the extensor tendons shows great promise in preventing and treating this disorder.

Always consult your physician prior to making a decision about your healthcare.

The Anti-Inflammatory Diet - Can it Help Defeat Arthritis, Lupus and Other Chronic Diseases?

According to some proponents of an Anti-Inflammatory diet, low grade inflammation may be at the root of everything from heart disease and diabetes to arthritis and Alzheimer's disease. Inflammation is the way the body's immune system responds to attack, injury or infection. Symptoms include swelling, pain, sometimes loss of movement or function and red coloration.

The immune system is a complex system of organs, tissues and specialized cells that protects the body from invasions by viruses, bacteria and allergens as well as harmful insiders such as infected cells and toxins. Autoimmune diseases are a result of the system turning on itself and damaging tissue and creating substances that result in chronic health conditions. Type 1 diabetes, arthritis, cancer, multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus are all examples of autoimmune diseases.

The immune system response to an unhealthy diet can lead to this chronic inflammation. Although an anti-inflammatory diet cannot eradicate inflammation, it purportedly can reduce the inflammation that causes autoimmune disease.

Aren't there drugs that can do this? Yes, of course there are. That is what NSAIDs (NonSteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are for. And they work; sort of. There are mixed reports on NSAIDs effect on inflammation. Some evidence shows that people on NSAIDs for long periods have a lower incidence of autoimmune disease. Other studies show that long term use can actually lead to cardiovascular problems.

What is an Anti-Inflammatory Diet ?

Any food with refined sugar or white flour in it tends to be inflammatory. Fast foods, deep fried foods, fat and processed foods all are considered inflammatory. An anti-inflammatory diet would exclude these items and include fresh fruits and vegetables, Omega 3 oils such as found in salmon, and a minimum of red meat. In other words this diet is no different from what we have constantly been told is a healthy diet. There are popular diets that are good examples.

• 
  The DASH Diet...DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. This diet consists of whole grains and grain products, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, low or non-fat dairy products, lean meats, fish and poultry, nuts, seeds and legumes with a very limited amount of fats and sweets.


• 
  The South Beach Diet...This diet boasts a life changing regimen that allows you to live contentedly without eating bad carbohydrate and fats. It works in three phases. Phase One lasts two weeks and consists of normal portions but all carbohydrates are restricted. In Phase Two some banned foods are introduced. This phase lasts until desired weight is reached. Phase Three is for maintenance and should be followed indefinitely.


• 
  The Mediterranean Diet...Key components of this diet include:
  
  Getting plenty of exercise and eating your meals with family and friends
  
  Eating a generous amount of fruits and vegetables
  
  Consuming healthy fats such as olive oil and canola oil
  
  Using herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods
  
  Eating small portions of nuts
  
  Drinking red wine, in moderation, for some
  
  Consuming very little red meat
  
  Eating fish or shellfish at least twice a week
  
  This has proven to be one of the healthiest diets in the world.


• 
  The Zone Diet...Described by it's creator Barry Sears not a diet but a healthy, balanced lifestyle he says it can best be described as a moderate-carbohydrate, moderate-protein, moderate-fat diet that has approximately one gram of fat for every two grams of protein and three grams of carbohydrates (The Zone Diet 1-2-3 Method). It is promoted as an anti-inflammatory diet .

Whether inflammation actually causes chronic diseases or merely accompanies them is probably not well established. However, like many preventable diseases, if inflammation can be controlled with a healthy diet, exercise, and a positively altered life style, isn't it worth a try?

Getting to Know Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptom

Are you concerned about identifying a rheumatoid arthritis symptom? Maybe you should be. Rheumatoid arthritis is after all, a common condition that affects the joints. There are other kinds of arthritis. This one in particular affects the lining of the joints. In time the disease may destroy the joint tissues and seriously hamper movement. What symptoms of the disease should you watch out for?

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Common sense will tell you that the most obvious symptoms will be felt and seen in the joints. Swelling in varying degrees will be obvious. This symptom is typically accompanied by stiffness and pain especially when the joints are moved or touched. All joints from the fingers to the shoulders may be visited by this condition. In very rare cases, organs may be affected too.

The disease has other symptoms beyond joint swelling. Some who have it may develop nodules or differently sized bumps in various areas of the body. Many individuals also experience symptoms similar to flu. They may suffer from fever, fatigue, weight loss and a lack of appetite.

Each particular rheumatoid arthritis symptom develops slowly. Symptoms may also come and disappear. When one suffers from symptoms, this is typically known as a flare up episode. The symptoms may then subside only to reappear again at another time. When the symptoms are present, movement becomes painful. Thorough damage of the joints can be permanently disabling.

Disease Causes

Experts have not fully determined the causes of rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms however may develop in you if you are genetically predisposed to the disease. There is also some indication that lifestyle factors such as smoking may contribute to the condition. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly moves against the tissues of the joint linings. Those who are at a higher risk of getting the disease are people over 40.

Solutions to Rheumatoid Arthritis

Since the disease causes are not fully understood, there is no current cure for the condition. Doctors however still recommend some form of treatment. Certain medications can help reduce the symptoms, slow down damage and stop total disability. Some possible medications include NSAIDs, DMARDs, steroids and immunosuppresants. In some cases, the disease can be so severe that surgery is required.

Aside from medical treatment, one may also be advised to change some habits. A healthy diet is often a must. This is usually paired with regular exercise. You may have to ask your doctor though for specific food and exercises that you may safely eat and use. Smoking, drinking and too much stress are to be avoided. In other words, the best way to personally deal with the condition is to live a clean, healthy and calm life.

A rheumatoid arthritis symptom is something to worry about. This doesn't mean though that you can forget about leading a normal life. Your world doesn't have to end because of rheumatoid arthritis. As long as you follow your doctor's advice, you can deal with your condition effectively.

Arthritis Treatment: The Workhorse Medicine for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis affecting almost two million Americans. It is a chronic autoimmune systemic disease for which there is no cure yet. It is also associated with a higher morbidity and mortality compared with the general population as a result of increased cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

However, advance over the last 30 years have permitted rheumatologists to get RA into remission in a great number of instances.

Probably one of the medicines that has made the most difference is methotrexate (MTX). This is a disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug that was first used in the early 1980's and is considered the "base drug" upon which other therapies are added.

MTX was first used in the oncology field. Its effect is to inhibit cellular metabolism and the proliferation (multiplication) of cells. Besides this anti-proliferative effect, MTX also has an a modest immunosuppressive effect.

Typically, a new patient with rheumatoid arthritis is immediately started on MTX in combination with either low dose prednisone or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Doses start at 7.5 mgs or 10 mgs per week given as a single dose once a week. The maximum dose we use is about 20 mgs. Some rheumatologists prefer to add on other DMARDS such as sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) or hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) or both.

Many other rheumatologists, however, prefer to add a biologic drug to MTX. I fall into this latter group.

MTX has been demonstrated to have two beneficial effects above and beyond the relief of symptoms. It has been shown to slow down the rate of x-ray progression which is a key determinant of eventual disability and also to potentially reduce the mortality associated with cardiovascular events.

It is generally safe. There are potential side effects including mouth ulcers, nausea, hair loss and more serious side effects such as potential liver damage and suppression of white blood cell count. Another issue is lung toxicity which can come on suddenly and is referred to as "methotrexate lung" or more insidiously leading to eventual fibrosis of the lungs. Patients with underlying liver disease such as hepatitis B and C should probably not receive the drug if possible.

Supplementation with folic acid can prevent or reduce the severity of many of the minor side effects. Close laboratory monitoring is mandatory. Patients with kidney disease should be monitored particularly closely and lower doses of MTX should be used since MTX toxicity increases with declining kidney function.

When patients develop infections of any sort, we recommend holding the MTX until they have recovered. For patients scheduled to have surgery we recommend they hold the MTX one week before and one week after the operation before resuming the drug.

Doctor, Should I Take Humira for My Rheumatoid Arthritis?

TNF alpha is a cytokine, a unique protein that is produced during the inflammatory response. TNF alpha is not only the result of inflammation, it is also a substance that promotes the inflammation. Increased levels of TNF are found in several inflammatory conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Drugs that block tumor necrosis factor (TNF) have been found to be particularly effective for the treatment of these serious forms of inflammatory arthritis.

Adalimumab (Humira) is constructed from a fully human monoclonal antibody. It binds to TNF alpha, preventing it from activating TNF receptors.

It acts like a barrier to the interaction between TNF alpha and receptors for TNF alpha on immune cells. This prevents TNF alpha from perpetuating inflammation and the pain, tenderness and swelling of joints in patients with different types of arthritis.

Humira reduces the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, the arthritis of psoriasis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It also prevents the progression of joint destruction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and the arthritis of psoriasis.

Humira can be used alone or in combination with methotrexate. The drug has been approved for use in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

It comes in a 40 mg prefilled syringe and is administered subcutaneously every two weeks. The syringe must be kept refrigerated.

Serious infections, including tuberculosis, have occurred in patients receiving Humira. In some cases, these infections have been fatal. Before starting the drug, a patient should be tested for TB. Any medication prescribed for the treatment of TB should start before beginning Humira and should be continued until the full course of medication is completed.

Since Humira suppresses important parts of the immune system, a patient should not receive vaccines containing live virus.

Having an infection could put a patient at risk for serious side effects from Humira.

TNF-blocking agents have been associated with reactivation of hepatitis B. Some cases have been fatal.

Rare cases of demyelinating syndromes such as multiple sclerosis have been reported.

Anti-TNF drugs should be used with caution in patients with congestive heart failure.

Combining Humira and Kineret (anakinra) is not recommended

Humira is contraindicated in pregnancy as well as for use in nursing mothers.

There have been rare cases of severe allergic reactions after taking Humira. Lymphoma and pancytopenia (low blood counts) have also been rarely reported in patients taking anti-TNF therapy.

The most common side-effects are injection site reactions, upper respiratory tract infections, headache, and nausea.

Arthritis Treatment: Psoriatic Arthritis - Background and Finally Getting Some Respect

One common form of arthritis that has been relatively ignored until recently is psoriatic arthritis. It is a systemic inflammatory destructive form of arthritis that is perhaps second only to rheumatoid arthritis in its ability to cause disability.

It is often described as a mixed disease since unlike rheumatoid arthritis which is purely a destructive breakdown disease that causes bone loss, joint erosions, and joint destruction, psoriatic arthritis (PA), also causes new bone formation.

The types of systemic features that accompany this condition are also unique in that inflammatory bowel disease, eye inflammation (uveitis), and psoriasis tend to accompany this type of arthritis.

Another unique feature of the disease is the presence of enthesopathy, a localized inflammation at the site where the tendons attach to bone. Areas where this commonly occurs are the Achilles tendon, lateral epicondyle of the elbow, iliac crest, patellar tendon of the knee, plantar fascia of the heel, and the lateral hip.

In addition, PA often presents with a peculiar condition called dactylitis. This occurs when the joints and tendon of a single digit or a few digits become acutely inflamed. This presentation is a hallmark of the disease.

Patients with PA also have co-morbid conditions that can affect the disease. Examples include, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, elevated lipids, and heart disease.

Treatments for psoriatic arthritis are not nearly as agreed upon as those for rheumatoid arthritis.

While non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSIADS) may be useful for early symptomatic relief, they are ineffective in regards to slowing disease progression.

Second line drugs, called disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS), while often used in a similar fashion to the way they're used in rheumatoid arthritis, are not nearly as effective. For example, the DMARD of choice in rheumatoid arthritis is methotrexate. While this drug works in some cases of psoriatic arthritis, its results are not as predictable. Also, it appears that patients with this condition may be at more risk for liver toxicity due to methotrexate.

Plaquenil, another DMARD that is used for RA, rarely is effective for the disease.

Sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), has been used with some success but again, the results are not as predictable or dependable.

The only group of medicines that appears to work well for psoriatic arthritis in a predicable fashion are the TNF inhibitors. There is some debate that certain TNF inhibitors work better for the skin than others. This is the subject of continued investigation.

Other biologic treatments are in the pipeline.