Pain and stiffness in the joints may mean one thing-arthritis. This disease may cause painful swelling and inflammation of the joints and are experienced by millions of people around the world. In the United States alone, it is estimated that by 2030 there will be nearly 70 million affected by this disease. This health ailment may be caused by pain and swelling in the joints. Cases of arthritis may be mild or severe, short-term, or permanent. Medical researchers suggest that there are more than 100 forms of arthritis but the most familiar form is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis takes place when the cartilage that supports the joints’ ear out, a process that occurs over a long period. Individuals who work out too much or over-train have an increased risk of developing this ailment.
Other types of joint ailment may include the following:
Rheumatoid-The body’s immune system does not work properly. This condition affects the joints, bones, and various organs of the body. Individuals who suffer from this ailment may feel tired and have a fever.
Gout-This is caused by the build-up of needle-like uric acid crystals in the joints. The big toe is often affected by this ailment.
Systematic lupus erthematosus or lupus-This is caused by an overly aggressive immune system. This disease is about nine times more common in men than in women.
Ankylosing spondhlitis-This condition affects the joints in the spine. In severe cases, the one infected may experience a stooped posture.
Bursitis-The major joints of the body are protected by small cushions called bursae. Bursitis takes place when these cushions are overused, they become sore and swollen.
Tendonitis-The tendons that connect the muscle becomes inflamed. This kind of arthritis is common in individuals who spend too much on computers.
Septic arthritis-This ailment is caused by a bacterial infection that leads to pain and swelling
Inflamed joints that tend to hurt when in motion are some familiar signs and symptoms of arthritis. These joints may be stiff and can be aggravated by movements or activities like walking, writing, typing, and many more. Stiffness is most noticeable after extended periods of rest or after waking up in the morning. In addition to these symptoms, individuals with arthritis encounter extreme fatigue, lack of energy, or weakness.
Presently, there is no cure for arthritis. There are only different medications out in the market that are designed to give relief from the pain this condition brings. Individuals with arthritis usually consume large doses of over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen. Some prescription drugs like celecoxib, rofecoxib, and valdecoxib are shown to give effective pain relief. However, these drugs may bring minimal or serious side effects to individuals who use them. Cardiovascular bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, and skin reactions are some usual side effects that might be encountered in using pain relievers. Recent medical studies show that consumption of food rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a group of polyunsaturated fat, is essential in alleviating joint pains caused by arthritis. The best sources of these fats are fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Engaging in healthy diets may prevent the development of arthritis or give arthritic pain relief. With daily consumption of essential vitamins and minerals, individuals who experience arthritis are supplying the body the components it needs to fight the pain and swelling that causes joint pain. Maintaining healthy food consumption and having a physically active lifestyle is essential not only in the prevention of arthritis but also improvements in one’s overall health.
