By Eileen Renders
Many of us as we begin to age ask ourselves at the first symptoms of joint pain, do I have rheumatoid arthritis, or could it be osteoid arthritis, and what is the difference? Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, and Osteoarthritis is not. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the body systemically, meaning it affects multiple joints within the body. It is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect a variety of body systems.
According to Mayo Clinic, Rheumatoid arthritis being an autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks your body tissues. This includes the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.
Signs and Symptoms include: tenderness, warm, and swollen joints, and joint stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity. Fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite are also symptoms.
Risk factors include; Your sex as women are more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis. Family history, smoking, and excess weight. If you suspect you may have rheumatoid arthritis, see your doctor. This disease can lead to other problems, and is best to follow your doctor’s orders.
Osteoarthritis This type of arthritis can often be prevented. Some of the ways to lower one’s risk is to follow these suggestions, according to Cleveland Clinic; Avoid tobacco products, do low-impact exercises, follow a healthy diet plan, always wear a seat belt, and always wear protective equipment for any activity, sport, or work.
For most people, it is a lifetime of managing symptoms, and your healthcare provider can assist you with that. Osteoarthritis is often referred to as a degenerative joint disease or OA. It occurs when the cartilage that lines your joints is somewhat worn or depleted. Modify your activities to ensure you are not causing more friction or joint stress. This does not mean to avoid activity. Perhaps your doctor could prescribe some Physical therapy sessions to educate you on what type of exercise is best for you, especially according to what bones are affected. Exercise increases blood flood and supplies rich oxygen, and exercise builds muscle and flexibility. Essential fatty acids, as well as a Standardized Turmeric Supplement (containing sufficient dose of the active ingredient Curcumin), have been shown to reduce inflammation. Also, consider an anti-inflammatory diet. Some foods increase inflammation.
It is strongly recommended before taking any Supplements or Herbs to obtain your doctor’s approval. Any information found in a Research article is not meant to be a substitute for your doctor’s recommendations. Certain conditions and or medications could cause a negative reaction.
Eileen Renders is a retired nutrition counselor, health research writer, author, and publisher with more than a dozen published titles on www.Amazon.com She founded the First Wellness Center in Atlantic County in 1995 and was a provider for Cigna and United Healthcare.
