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Arthritis: What It Is and How to Manage It

Arthritis: What It Is and How to Manage It

What Exactly is Arthritis?

Arthritis is inflammation of the joints, and a series of changes in the joints, that causes permanent joint deformation.

There are two basic types of the arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Because of the direct friction of one joint-bone on the other, bony growths can appear (ossification). Movements become restricted; the joints are painful and swollen and sometimes crack while bending. The common opinion is that only the elderly get this disease, but doctors say otherwise.

Well known signs of arthritis are:

  • Swelling in joints
  • Stiffness in your joints
  • Warmth in a joint
  • Reddening of a joint

Who Does Arthritis Affect& What Are The Symptoms?

It is commonly thought that arthritis is a disease that only affects the elderly, but it can appear at any age.The main symptoms are:

  • Redness in and around the affected area
  • Pain and swelling in the affected joint
  • Heat around the affected joint

Symptoms should not be ignored, because the progression can be slowed,if detected early. Arthritis progressively gets worse, but if you seek treatment, the pain can be alleviated and your lifestyle, much less limited.

Treatment

Diagnosis is usually followed by physical therapy, which will determine the scope and duration of treatment. It is recommended that you swim if you are able and exercise to strengthen muscles, which can relieve the joints. Work at shedding any extra weight because it canincrease inflammation and put unnecessary pressure on your bones and joints.

Corticosteroids are often used to treat arthritis. This is because they help to restore the connective tissue. Analgesics (pain relievers) can be used, as well. You shouldn’t take them often, because you may develop a tolerance. If your arthritis is already advanced then these measures won’t help much. Another possibility is the installation of an artificial joint, where the damaged joint is replaced with a prosthetic one.

Take Good Care of Your Body

Accept that you cannot do everything, and:

  • Don’t lift anything that is too heavy
  • Avoid excessive physical exertion
  • Avoid uneven terrain, because stiffness may cause you to fall

Foods to Avoid With Arthritis

Foods to avoid for arthritis include those with high amounts of sugar, refined carbohydrates like bread, pasta, and rice. These are often referred to as “empty carbs”. Other foods that you need to avoid if you have arthritis are:

  • Caffeine, alcohol, salty food, or excessive meat (inhibit calcium intake)
  • Cranberries, spinach, and plums (rich oxalic acid)
  • Tomato, potato, and tobacco (and other belladonna plants)
  • Animal fat and nuts (causes a buildup of uric acid, damaging joints)

It is advisable to eat plenty of the following:

  • Fish (because it is rich in omega – 3 fatty acids)
  • Seaweed
  • Green vegetables
  • Carrots
  • Soy products
  • Whole grains

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