By Amy Clark
At present, Osteoarthritis (abbreviated as OA) is a common problem that affect people in the whole world. Osteoarthritis (OA) is particularly prevalent among elderly people, and also among people who have stressed joints or knee, back, neck, and different related injuries.
One more form of arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis (a.k.a. RA), is somewhat rare, only affecting roughly 1 percent of the population. Regardless, we may have all seen rheumatoid arthritis in 1 form or another.
Luckily, a range of nutritional supplements are now available to help arthritis sufferers alleviate the painful and debilitating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Below are certain nutritional supplements that have been proven successful in arthritis treatment:
Omega-3 fatty acids: These basically function as anti-inflammatories that will hinder rheumatoid arthritis from progressing further. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are also able to treat the symptoms of OA, and in some cases discontinue the need for NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
EPA/DHA: Clinical research has shown that 1400 mg of EPA per day and 1000 milligrams of DHA every day can reliably treat both RA and OA. The Super Omega-3 EPA/DHA is an especially powerful supplement, as it incorporates such ingredients as Sesame Lignans and Olive Extracts.
Curcumin: Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory derived from Tumeric that inhibits various harmful enzymes, consequently treating the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. On the other hand, various types of Curcumin lack sufficient quantities of Piperine, a black pepper component. As a consequence, those who take Curcumin do not receive the appropriate dosage they need for successful treatment.
This pertains to the activated form of a type of amino acid called methionine. As it functions as an activated form, SAMe is naturally transformed to cysteine in the body. Thus, it has an abundance of anti-oxidants that help fight osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as suppress harmful enzymes in the cartilage.
Chondroitin: Chondroitin sulphate, a component of the articular cartilage, is responsible for cartilage formation and development. Chondroitin has been established to be effective in relieving pain and restoring mobility, thus ultimately treating OA. Additionally, Chondroitin also prevents further joint damage that results from OA erosion.
Glucosamine: Glucosamine is a natural product that is necessary in joint cartilage formation. In osteoarthritis cases, the synthesis of glucosamine is faulty, hence hampering the growth of cartilage. For this reason, using a Glucosamine supplement will enhance joint cartilage growth. In addition, Glucosamine effectively treats RA as it serves against inflammation and protects the joints.
MSM (methyl sulfonylurea methane): MSM is a molecule that is present in specific tissues of our body. It contains the same sulphur that supports our body's structural molecules. It is for this reason that MSM works effectively in osteoarthritis treatment.
Green Tea Compounds: Green tea has been proven to be reliable in inhibiting specific cytokines, thus fighting OA and RA progression. Green tea also works to treat inflammation.
Vitamin C: Full of valuable anti-oxidants, Vitamin C fights oxidative stress and eliminates harmful radicals. Subsequently, it alleviates the symptoms of OA and RA. Since your body does not produce Vitamin C naturally, it is imperative that you get it from other sources.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is also a potent anti-oxidant that isn't only important in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis treatment, but also in maintaining your health as a whole.
About the Author:
To grab your copy of the Free Arthritis Relief Guide, and to read more articles related to Nutritional Supplements For Arthritis, please visit this website on arthritis.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Does Chondroitin Osteoarthritis Treatment Really Work?
POSTED BY Gilbert Lowe on Jan 23 under Health and Fitness: Arthritis
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The odds of suffering from at least one painful joint increases dramatically, as people age, because cartilage naturally decreases. Over time, the cartilage between the bones simple wears thin or disappears altogether. The result can drastically reduce quality of life as the condition progressively worsens. Looking for a less aggressive approach, many patients want to know: does chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment really work?
Osteoarthritis can affect anyone in any joint of the body. However, aging generally finds the disease in the knee, hip, spin or finger. Wherever the cartilage disappears, it can be extremely painful, resulting in reduced mobility and stiffness. Unfortunately, there is no cure. Eventually many patients must undergo aggressive treatment other than chondroitin for osteoarthritis.
Some of the surgical alternatives are:
• Joint replacement
• Cleaning around the joint
• Realigning the joint
• Fusing joints together
All of these surgical treatments have been known to relieve the pain for many, but mobility issues and recovery time are still a problem. For example, fusing joints together may prevent the rubbing of the bones together, but range of movement is always a sacrifice.
Other treatments may include low impact exercises, over-the-counter pain killers, or stronger prescription drugs. However, none of them prevent the slow decline of cartilage between the joints. It is all meant for pain control. But, what if chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment really works?
Chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment is not a drug meant to control pain. Instead, the supplement purposes to slow, stop, or reverse degeneration of cartilage in the joints.
Of course, it would be remiss to simply suggest self-diagnosing and taking a supplement. Osteoarthritis is a serious disease that should be monitored by a trusted physician.
However, with close monitoring to check for possible side effects, the benefits of chondroitin arthritis treatment have been scientifically studied with evidence of success.
According to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration in an article placed with MayoClinic.com, pain and the need for medication has been reduced. In addition, mobility has improved.
Controlled studies since the 1980’s, the symptoms seem to improve over a period of 6-24 months. However, the article does not mention an improvement in the amount of cartilage between the joints, nor if patients undergoing chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment will still need a more invasive treatment at a later date.
In summary, anyone with recurrent joint pain needs to consult a physician to make sure what is going on within the body. If this joint disease is diagnosed, discuss the options for pain control and mobility, including chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment.
Gilbert Lowe has been dealing with Multiple Sclerosis and osteoarthritis for more than 14 years. He is dedicated to helping others manage diseases. To see how he manages osteoarthritis, visit http://www.leonalowe.com.
Post Page Rank
The odds of suffering from at least one painful joint increases dramatically, as people age, because cartilage naturally decreases. Over time, the cartilage between the bones simple wears thin or disappears altogether. The result can drastically reduce quality of life as the condition progressively worsens. Looking for a less aggressive approach, many patients want to know: does chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment really work?
Osteoarthritis can affect anyone in any joint of the body. However, aging generally finds the disease in the knee, hip, spin or finger. Wherever the cartilage disappears, it can be extremely painful, resulting in reduced mobility and stiffness. Unfortunately, there is no cure. Eventually many patients must undergo aggressive treatment other than chondroitin for osteoarthritis.
Some of the surgical alternatives are:
• Joint replacement
• Cleaning around the joint
• Realigning the joint
• Fusing joints together
All of these surgical treatments have been known to relieve the pain for many, but mobility issues and recovery time are still a problem. For example, fusing joints together may prevent the rubbing of the bones together, but range of movement is always a sacrifice.
Other treatments may include low impact exercises, over-the-counter pain killers, or stronger prescription drugs. However, none of them prevent the slow decline of cartilage between the joints. It is all meant for pain control. But, what if chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment really works?
Chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment is not a drug meant to control pain. Instead, the supplement purposes to slow, stop, or reverse degeneration of cartilage in the joints.
Of course, it would be remiss to simply suggest self-diagnosing and taking a supplement. Osteoarthritis is a serious disease that should be monitored by a trusted physician.
However, with close monitoring to check for possible side effects, the benefits of chondroitin arthritis treatment have been scientifically studied with evidence of success.
According to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration in an article placed with MayoClinic.com, pain and the need for medication has been reduced. In addition, mobility has improved.
Controlled studies since the 1980’s, the symptoms seem to improve over a period of 6-24 months. However, the article does not mention an improvement in the amount of cartilage between the joints, nor if patients undergoing chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment will still need a more invasive treatment at a later date.
In summary, anyone with recurrent joint pain needs to consult a physician to make sure what is going on within the body. If this joint disease is diagnosed, discuss the options for pain control and mobility, including chondroitin osteoarthritis treatment.
Gilbert Lowe has been dealing with Multiple Sclerosis and osteoarthritis for more than 14 years. He is dedicated to helping others manage diseases. To see how he manages osteoarthritis, visit http://www.leonalowe.com.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Difference Between Osteoarthritis And Rheumatoid Arthritis
Jan 20, 2009 in Diseases
by Amy Clark
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA) are the two most prevalent types of arthritis, and differentiating between the two is important.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is more prevalent, afflicting a myriad of people all over the world. Rheumatoid is basically an inflammatory condition that affects the joints. Through time, the inflammation can gradually affect the major organs of the human body and may progress into a debilitating disease.
In the past, medical research has tried to discover the cause of this condition, but the specific cause has not been identified. At present, it is speculated that the cause is a genetic factor which predisposes a patient to this disease. Certain environmental factors are also deemed to set off its symptoms.
RA may be treated with a number of drugs, such as -steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), along with DMARDs or disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, both of which can be prescribed by a qualified physician. Popular examples of such drugs are Enbrel, Methotrexate, Celebrax, Arava, among others. Though these medicines have been known to to produce a favorable outcome, it is also necessary to remember that these meds may have the potential to trigger negative side effects that can worsen rather than treat your overall condition.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis (OA) commonly affects older people, for the reason that osteoarthritis is caused primarily by the wear and tear of the joints triggered by the aging process. In OA, the water component of the cartilage is increased, whereas the protein component diminishes. Constant stress or use of the joints, like getting joint injury or gaining weight, can also trigger this condition. In addition, certain factors as infections of the joint, hormonal disorders, diabetes, pregnancy, for example, can set off OA. Treatment methods can vary from prescribed local injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to joint replacement surgeries.
Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
Familiarizing the symptoms of Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis may help you learn the distinction between these two forms of arthritis.
For example, when two sides of the joint are affected, plus there is a swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation) of the joints, the disease is most likely rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases, the person commonly suffers from some fever, fatigue, and a sensation of stiffness throughout the body for 15min intervals or more. Certain types of vasculitis, a condition which affects the arteries and veins, also have the potential to develop as a consequence of rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have greater potential for a stroke or a heart attack.
Also typical among rheumatoid arthritic sufferers are renal amyloidosis and fibrosis of the lungs. Kidney and lung inflammations may be affected directly or indirectly by rheumatoid arthritis.
Conversely, osteoarthritis does not commonly affect the major organs of your body. In the majority of cases, osteoarthritis only develops as a result of old age.
It is extremely important for arthritic patients to differentiate between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Knowing what type of arthritis affects you will allow you to to obtain the right treatment for your condition. As always, discussing this with a a qualified physician is important for a more definite diagnosis and subsequent treatment. A qualified doctor will prescribe the necessary remedy and ultimately point you to the right direction. If you feel some negative effects from using prescribed drugs, you must contact your doctor at once.
About the Author:
To grab a copy of Amy’s Free Arthritis Relief Guide, and to read more articles related to Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, please visit the arthritis website at http://www.ridarthritispain.com .
by Amy Clark
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA) are the two most prevalent types of arthritis, and differentiating between the two is important.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is more prevalent, afflicting a myriad of people all over the world. Rheumatoid is basically an inflammatory condition that affects the joints. Through time, the inflammation can gradually affect the major organs of the human body and may progress into a debilitating disease.
In the past, medical research has tried to discover the cause of this condition, but the specific cause has not been identified. At present, it is speculated that the cause is a genetic factor which predisposes a patient to this disease. Certain environmental factors are also deemed to set off its symptoms.
RA may be treated with a number of drugs, such as -steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), along with DMARDs or disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, both of which can be prescribed by a qualified physician. Popular examples of such drugs are Enbrel, Methotrexate, Celebrax, Arava, among others. Though these medicines have been known to to produce a favorable outcome, it is also necessary to remember that these meds may have the potential to trigger negative side effects that can worsen rather than treat your overall condition.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis (OA) commonly affects older people, for the reason that osteoarthritis is caused primarily by the wear and tear of the joints triggered by the aging process. In OA, the water component of the cartilage is increased, whereas the protein component diminishes. Constant stress or use of the joints, like getting joint injury or gaining weight, can also trigger this condition. In addition, certain factors as infections of the joint, hormonal disorders, diabetes, pregnancy, for example, can set off OA. Treatment methods can vary from prescribed local injections of hyaluronan and glucocorticoid to joint replacement surgeries.
Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
Familiarizing the symptoms of Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis may help you learn the distinction between these two forms of arthritis.
For example, when two sides of the joint are affected, plus there is a swelling or reddening (i.e. inflammation) of the joints, the disease is most likely rheumatoid arthritis. In these cases, the person commonly suffers from some fever, fatigue, and a sensation of stiffness throughout the body for 15min intervals or more. Certain types of vasculitis, a condition which affects the arteries and veins, also have the potential to develop as a consequence of rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have greater potential for a stroke or a heart attack.
Also typical among rheumatoid arthritic sufferers are renal amyloidosis and fibrosis of the lungs. Kidney and lung inflammations may be affected directly or indirectly by rheumatoid arthritis.
Conversely, osteoarthritis does not commonly affect the major organs of your body. In the majority of cases, osteoarthritis only develops as a result of old age.
It is extremely important for arthritic patients to differentiate between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Knowing what type of arthritis affects you will allow you to to obtain the right treatment for your condition. As always, discussing this with a a qualified physician is important for a more definite diagnosis and subsequent treatment. A qualified doctor will prescribe the necessary remedy and ultimately point you to the right direction. If you feel some negative effects from using prescribed drugs, you must contact your doctor at once.
About the Author:
To grab a copy of Amy’s Free Arthritis Relief Guide, and to read more articles related to Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, please visit the arthritis website at http://www.ridarthritispain.com .
Friday, December 26, 2008
Osteoarthritis Risk Factors
Wednesday December 24, 2008
Certain factors increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis -- the most common joint disease in the United States and worldwide. Not all people who have x-ray evidence of osteoarthritis develop symptoms of osteoarthritis. This fact has made defining osteoarthritis risk factors more difficult. But it's important to recognize osteoarthritis risk factors when possible because some are modifiable.
Being overweight is probably the best known risk factor for osteoarthritis. Obese women are four to five times more likely to have knee osteoarthritis than people of normal weight. But there are other risk factors that are just as important. What are the factors that increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis?
Certain factors increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis -- the most common joint disease in the United States and worldwide. Not all people who have x-ray evidence of osteoarthritis develop symptoms of osteoarthritis. This fact has made defining osteoarthritis risk factors more difficult. But it's important to recognize osteoarthritis risk factors when possible because some are modifiable.
Being overweight is probably the best known risk factor for osteoarthritis. Obese women are four to five times more likely to have knee osteoarthritis than people of normal weight. But there are other risk factors that are just as important. What are the factors that increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis?
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Dealing With Arthritis
Very often, we make the mistake of thinking that arthritis affects older people only. This is not true. Over 15% of Americans affected are over 18 years of age. Arthritis is a joint inflammation that is a leading cause of disability in the US.
Arthritis
Simply put, arthritis is a joint inflammation. It causes cramping of knees, stiffness in joints and movement becomes painful and sometimes impossible. There are several different kinds of arthritis. However, we will discuss the two most common forms.
Osteoarthritis is caused by a breakdown of cartilage in joints. It causes joint pain and stiffness. Fingers, knees, hips and spine are most commonly affected.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the inflammation of the lining of the joint. The cause is yet unknown, but it is of the autoimmune type. In this condition, the body’s own cells attack it. It affects women more than twice as often as it affects men. An absolute cure is yet to be found for this condition.
Do you have arthritis?
There are some symptoms that you can watch out for: pain, swollen and deformed joints and limited mobility and stiffness, especially in the morning.
Some factors like age and gender play a role in determining if you are at risk. Although people of all ages are affected, your risk increases with your advancing years. In addition, if you are a woman, you are more likely to be affected.
If you have been involved in physically demanding professions, which involve heavy unsupported lifting or jarring movements, then it is likely to affect you. People involved in rough, damaging sports are also likely victims.
A common cause of osteoarthritis is obesity. A healthy lifestyle can help you out here. A possible cause of rheumatoid arthritis is genetic predisposition, as well.
Who can help?
There are many ways to treat this condition. People affected by arthritis can lead normal lives owing to these treatments.
The best first step is to consult a specialist. He will help you to assess the severity of your condition.
Physiotherapy has proved useful to arthritis patients. It helps to strengthen muscles around the joints so that they can provide support. A massage with creams like Tiger Balm and Ben Gay is also helpful.
Hydrotherapy, in which you use cold and hot water, is also said to be a great pain reliever.
Special devices like arthritis canes and walkers will be suitable for those that have limited mobility.
There are several helpful medications, analgesics, and painkillers. Steroidal drugs are used sometimes, both orally and injected directly into the joint.
If your joints are severely affected, then surgery is also an option.
Do not take to your bed if you have arthritis. Be active, because physical activity has helped arthritis patients. However, it is better to stay away from excessive physical activity.
Whatever your age is, proper care and protection can help you fight this disease.
Arthritis
Simply put, arthritis is a joint inflammation. It causes cramping of knees, stiffness in joints and movement becomes painful and sometimes impossible. There are several different kinds of arthritis. However, we will discuss the two most common forms.
Osteoarthritis is caused by a breakdown of cartilage in joints. It causes joint pain and stiffness. Fingers, knees, hips and spine are most commonly affected.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the inflammation of the lining of the joint. The cause is yet unknown, but it is of the autoimmune type. In this condition, the body’s own cells attack it. It affects women more than twice as often as it affects men. An absolute cure is yet to be found for this condition.
Do you have arthritis?
There are some symptoms that you can watch out for: pain, swollen and deformed joints and limited mobility and stiffness, especially in the morning.
Some factors like age and gender play a role in determining if you are at risk. Although people of all ages are affected, your risk increases with your advancing years. In addition, if you are a woman, you are more likely to be affected.
If you have been involved in physically demanding professions, which involve heavy unsupported lifting or jarring movements, then it is likely to affect you. People involved in rough, damaging sports are also likely victims.
A common cause of osteoarthritis is obesity. A healthy lifestyle can help you out here. A possible cause of rheumatoid arthritis is genetic predisposition, as well.
Who can help?
There are many ways to treat this condition. People affected by arthritis can lead normal lives owing to these treatments.
The best first step is to consult a specialist. He will help you to assess the severity of your condition.
Physiotherapy has proved useful to arthritis patients. It helps to strengthen muscles around the joints so that they can provide support. A massage with creams like Tiger Balm and Ben Gay is also helpful.
Hydrotherapy, in which you use cold and hot water, is also said to be a great pain reliever.
Special devices like arthritis canes and walkers will be suitable for those that have limited mobility.
There are several helpful medications, analgesics, and painkillers. Steroidal drugs are used sometimes, both orally and injected directly into the joint.
If your joints are severely affected, then surgery is also an option.
Do not take to your bed if you have arthritis. Be active, because physical activity has helped arthritis patients. However, it is better to stay away from excessive physical activity.
Whatever your age is, proper care and protection can help you fight this disease.
Monday, December 15, 2008
KNEE OA MORE LIKELY TO ADVANCE IN OBESE PEOPLE
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 25, 2008 – In people with knee osteoarthritis (OA), those who are obese are more likely to develop advanced, end-stage disease than those who are of healthy weight, according to research funded in part by the Arthritis Foundation and presented this week at the American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific Meeting in San Francisco.
Using a computer model of knee OA progression based on published national data, scientists from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and New England Baptist Hospital in Boston and University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill projected the occurrence and progression of knee osteoarthritis among several cohorts of individuals stratified by the presence at age 60 of obesity, knee pain and radiographic knee osteoarthritis.
The research team, led by first author Holly Holt and Principal Investigator, Elena Losina, PhD, of Brigham and Women’s Hospital, found that 70 percent of obese adults with mild knee OA at age 60, who survive 20 years, will develop advanced, end-stage disease by age 80. In contrast, just 43 percent of non-obese adults with mild knee OA will have end-stage disease after 20 years.
Using a computer model of knee OA progression based on published national data, scientists from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and New England Baptist Hospital in Boston and University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill projected the occurrence and progression of knee osteoarthritis among several cohorts of individuals stratified by the presence at age 60 of obesity, knee pain and radiographic knee osteoarthritis.
The research team, led by first author Holly Holt and Principal Investigator, Elena Losina, PhD, of Brigham and Women’s Hospital, found that 70 percent of obese adults with mild knee OA at age 60, who survive 20 years, will develop advanced, end-stage disease by age 80. In contrast, just 43 percent of non-obese adults with mild knee OA will have end-stage disease after 20 years.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Undeclared Analogue Found In A Slimming Product
The Hong Kong Department of Health appealed to members of the public not to buy or use a slimming product named "Kalomees" as it was found to have contained an undeclared drug analogue that may cause serious side effect.
A spokesman for the department said that laboratory tests on the product sample today showed the presence of N,N-didesmethylsibutramine which is an analogue of sibutramine.
A spokesman for the department said that laboratory tests on the product sample today showed the presence of N,N-didesmethylsibutramine which is an analogue of sibutramine.
Friday, May 18, 2007
An Asthma Cure From Frogs?
It appears that a starchy, milkshake-like liquid, which has a tendency to sting the throat, is believed to have the power to cure asthma, bronchitis, sluggishness and even helps enhance your sex drive. The drink, which sometimes called "Peruvian Viagra", sells for about 90 cents in Peru.
The liquid, which is revered by some Andean cultures, is made of a skinned frog, three ladles of hot, white bean broth, two over filled spoonfuls of honey, raw aloe vera plant and several tablespoons of maca (an Andean root, which also supposed to increase ones sex drive). All the ingredients are place in a blender, blended and the results is strain and goes into a beer mug.
The drink is commonly found in the central highland cities. This is known as there "power drink" and the concoction is treat as the morning or afternoon cup of coffee. Personally I would rather stick simply with ground up coffee beans with my Viagra pill.
The liquid, which is revered by some Andean cultures, is made of a skinned frog, three ladles of hot, white bean broth, two over filled spoonfuls of honey, raw aloe vera plant and several tablespoons of maca (an Andean root, which also supposed to increase ones sex drive). All the ingredients are place in a blender, blended and the results is strain and goes into a beer mug.
The drink is commonly found in the central highland cities. This is known as there "power drink" and the concoction is treat as the morning or afternoon cup of coffee. Personally I would rather stick simply with ground up coffee beans with my Viagra pill.
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