Archive for July, 2009

Why A Healthy Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet Matters

Friday, July 31st, 2009



Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto immune disorder affecting multiple joints resulting into pain, swelling, redness and rise in the local temperature of the joint. The precise cause of Rheumatoid arthritis is not known. However, the role of genetic factors mostly the histocompatibility antigens (HLA- DR 1, HLA- DR 4), the infective hypothesis (association with Proteus mirabilis, Epstein-Barr virus, CMV,

Mycoplasma, Rubella virus and Parvovirus are demonstrated), some environmental factors (harmful role of climatic changes along with urbanization) have been hypothesized.

As the signs and symptoms of it differs from one time to another, some researchers have thought the association of a number of foods we take that may adversely affect our symptoms.

Practically, there is no specific proof that any particular food has some effect over joint pain or inflammation; researches have highlighted that certain fish oils and oranges have a protective role against Rheumatoid arthritis by reducing joint inflammation. However, more study is needed for titration of the potential benefit.

The rule of thumb is that if it is seen that certain foods increase the pain and inflammation of the arthritis, it is always better to skip over from our diet, if it really helps. But it will be irrational if we exclude the whole group of the specific foods without obtaining an opinion from a doctor or a qualified dietician.

A double blind study was conducted comprising 23000 participants for eight years. They were maintaining the food cards to note the diet they were taking. The data came out that, 73 participants developed this and 146 control subjects (who were not suffering from the same).

After intensive analysis, researchers opined that people who developed Rheumatoid arthritis were eating less number of fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables in compared to those who did not produce the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis. The most important thing is to take a balanced diet and maintain an optimal weight in a patient suffering from it.

The aim is to reduce or possibly omit the gluten and casein from pursuing a healthy Rheumatoid arthritis diet [http://www.arthritissymptoms.org/arthritis-diet.htm].

The extra amount of weight increases the stress over the weight bearing joints by amplifying the joint load. Thus there is increase in the joint pain, inflammation and restricted mobility of the joint if any. It was also noticed that people who consumed less amount of Vitamin C were at three times greater risk of being a Rheumatoid arthritis patient than that of the people who consumed highest amount of Vitamin C.

The conclusion was that Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant, which fights against the triggering factors of this.

Vitamin C acts as a cofactor during collagen synthesis, the main structural protein forming the joint tissues and bones. It has a role to fight against infection and may act to control inflammation.

Another key factor for joint pain is increased weight. The extra weight put some additional load to the joints which are already weak, and it can not bear the same amount that it was used to. So, it is important that we must lose some weight. Diet has a tremendous role to reduce weight.

We have to eliminate the foods that give us blind calories. These include all the carbonated beverages, alcohol, and chocolate, junk foods, butter, Ghee (clarified butter) or any other food that is rich in saturated fatty acids.

Anemia Does Not Have to Be Pernicious Any More!

Thursday, July 30th, 2009



Pernicious anemia is a condition caused by insufficient red blood cells due to a lack of vitamin B12 in the body. In the anemic person, the blood cannot carry enough oxygen to the cells of the body. The blood cells are larger than, and do not split like healthy ones.

The name “pernicious anemia” was coined in 1872 by the German physician Anton Biermer because it was often fatal as there were yet no treatments available. The disease, even today, can be severe if it is not treated in time. It is especially common in older adults.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can be caused by a number of factors. A diet low in this vitamin, like a strict vegetarian diet that excludes meat, fish, dairy products and eggs is the main culprit. However, most of the average North American diets of today are sadly lacking in B12. Breastfed infants of strict vegetarian mothers can develop anemia in a short time because they don’t have enough vitamin B12 stored in their bodies.

Chronic alcoholics and the aged are prime targets for this disease as they tend not to eat nutritious meals and have digestive troubles. The main causes are insufficient stomach acid, or Intrinsic Factor, to digest food in the intestine, parasite infections, an overabundance of intestinal bacteria, and medicine. B12 is very hard to digest and is dependent on sufficient Intrinsic Factor to be absorbed from the intestines into the blood stream. Celiac disease, a genetic disorder of intolerance to gluten, and Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory bowel disease, can also precipitate anemia.

The main risk factors for developing pernicious anemia include a family history of pernicious anemia, diabetes, a malfunctioning thyroid, and intestinal disorders.

The most common symptom of anemia is feeling tired and weak. As anemic blood is not carrying enough oxygen, it causes the heart to work harder to get enough oxygen to the body’s organs and tissues. There is a plethora of other symptoms. These include a smooth bright red tongue, pale or yellowish skin, low-grade fever, mental changes, nervous disorders, dizziness, shortness-of-breath, heart palpitations, tingling and numbness in hands and feet, giddiness, and digestive disorders.

As mild to moderate anemia may have no signs or symptoms, it may initially be hard to discover.

Anemia is usually diagnosed by a general practitioner by means of checks on your family and medical history, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests and procedures including a complete blood count (CBC).Depending on the symptoms and/or conditions, neurologists, cardiologists, hematologists and gastroenterologists may diagnose your condition.

Typical treatment for pernicious anemia is lifelong vitamin B12 injections. A lack of folic acid, however, can also cause anemia. Due to the lack of vitamin B12 and folic acid, the arteries of an anemic person are clogged with homocysteine as well. Without treatment, therefore, pernicious anemia can cause serious problems and can be fatal.

People with pernicious anemia also have an increased risk for developing stomach cancer and should be closely monitored by their health professionals.

The good news, and yes there is good news, is that you can not only prevent this condition, but also treat it naturally and without painful, expensive injections! A tiny sublingual tablet combining B12, B6 and Folic acid is now available to cleanse arteries as well as boost both mood and energy speedily as it dissolves directly into the blood stream! These three vital vitamins each work best when combined with the others.

Enjoy your health. It’s your most precious commodity. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Disclaimer:

All material provided is for informational and educational purposes only, and is not to be construed as medical advice or instruction.

It is of utmost importance that you do your own due diligence. Consult with your physician or a qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health and well-being or regarding any findings expressed herein.

If you are taking any prescription medication, consult with your physician about possible side effects before taking any supplement.

Arthritis – A Dog’s Painful Enemy

Thursday, July 30th, 2009



Arthritis is a dog’s painful enemy, but it is a treatable condition, that if caught early enough, can reduce the amount of pain your dog will suffer.

If you suspect that your dog has the first stages of arthritis, talk to your vet about beginning treatment. X-rays will not pick up the early stages of arthritis, they only will confirm the problem, after the cartilage damage has already occurred.

If your senior dog is moving slower and stiffer, do not shrug it off as old age (it may be,) but it could be the start of a serious arthritic problem.

Arthritis is incurable, but it is treatable and pain can be reduced and controlled for your dog. The important thing here is to remember that if you suspect arthritis, start treatment as soon as possible.

What are the steps you can take to help your dog?

Probably one of the most beneficial things you can do for your dog, especially if it is overweight, is to help it lose a few pounds. Dogs with normal body weight have less incidences of arthritis and if the dog has it, it will be less severe. Less weight means less stress on the bones and it slows down the progression of the disease.

Seek the advice of your vet before putting your dog on a diet. However, taking away high calorie treats and giving your dog raw veggies like carrots and green beans will help, along with only feeding three quarters of the amount of regular food at each meal.

Low impact exercise is also important. Slow, daily on leash walks, swimming, and moderate jogging are good methods of exercise for your dog. It is important to have your vet check your dog’s joint stability before starting on a moderate exercise program as unstable joints can accelerate the arthritic condition.

If you dog becomes stiff or sore after the exercise, reduce the amount or the intensity of the exercise. If you dog is already stiff and lame physical therapy maybe the answer. Physical exercise helps maintain muscle mass, prevents muscle atrophy and helps protect the joints.
Feed your dog a joint-specific diet. What is a joint-specific diet? It is one that is high in omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, which will help to decrease joint inflammation. Your vet can instruct you on the diet guidelines

Some joint supplements are known to help, such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and omega-3 fatty acids, just be wary of the brand you buy. Some off brands do not contain the labeled ingredients. Supplements along with a weight loss program have helped many dogs.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are also know to help, see your vet for advice on the current ones that have helped other dogs. Some NSAIDs work and some do not, if you do not see improvement within a couple of weeks, stop the drug, wait about 5 days and try something new.

Some dogs experience side effects from arthritic drugs. If your dog vomits, has increased drinking or urinary problems, is lethargic, has decreased appetite, tarry looking stools or blood in the stools, call your vet at once.

Extra-corporeal shock wave therapy treatments (ESWT) can provide pain relief for as long as 6 months to12 months. ESWT focuses at a small site within the body to provide relief. It is the same technology that is used to break up kidney stones in humans. There are no side effects from the treatment.

Acupuncture, chiropractic and massage can also be helpful if used in conjunction with other treatment.

Orthopedic beds or other soft beds should be offered to the dog for sleeping. Covering slippery wood floors will help the dog maintain balance and offering the use of a ramp to walk up stairs or to get in the car is very helpful and appreciated by the dog.

By working closely with your vet; you can care for your arthritic pet simply and with ease. There are many different options to try and the secret is to start when you first suspect an arthritic problem. Early treatment will provide your dog with comfort, easier movement, and an improved quality of life.

What is the Difference Between Fat and Carbohydrates (Carbs)?

Wednesday, July 29th, 2009



Carbohydrates and fats are macronutrients, and macronutrients are specific types of nutrients that provide either energy or calories to the body. Nutrients are substances that are required to promote growth, healthy metabolism and other vital functions of the body. Macro means large, and macronutrients are nutrients that are required in relatively large amounts in order to promote growth. Each macronutrient provides calories, but the amount of calories provided by each of these nutrients varies. Carbohydrates and proteins both provide 4 calories per gram, and fat provides 9 calories per gram. In addition to carbohydrates, fats and proteins, there is only one other substance that provides calories, which is alcohol. Alcohol provides 7 calories for every gram, but alcohol is not treated as a macronutrient because we do not require it for survival.

Carbohydrates are the one macronutrient that we need in the largest amounts, and between 45 and 64 percent of our calories should come from carbohydrates. The reason why we need this many carbohydrates in our diet is because these carbohydrates are the main source of fuel for our bodies, and are easily used for energy by the body. All of the cells and the tissues in our bodies can take the glucose from these carbohydrates for energy, and many parts of our body cannot function properly without carbohydrates, including our kidneys, brain, our muscles, our heart and our central nervous system. Carbohydrates also promote proper intestinal health and healthy waste elimination. Carbohydrates are naturally derived from starchy whole food sources including grains, potatoes, fruits, yogurt and milk. Carbohydrates can be found in smaller amounts in vegetables, nuts, beans, seeds and cottage cheese as well.

Another vital type of carbohydrates that our bodies need is Fiber, which refers to specific carbohydrates which are not digested by the body. Instead, these carbohydrates pass straight through the intestines, which can help to move waste out through our bodies more effectively. Low fiber diets can cause many health issues including hemorrhoids and constipation. Diets that are high in fiber on the other hand can decrease risks associated with obesity, high cholesterol and heart disease. Fiber rich foods include whole grains, vegetables and fruits.

Fats have picked up a pretty poor reputation because they are associated with the cause of weight gain, but there is a level of fat that is essential for our survival. Between 20 and 35 percent of our calories should come from fat. The reason why we need this much fat is for our normal development and growth, for concentrated energy, for assistance in absorbing a number of vital vitamins including vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K and carotenoids, to provide cushioning for our vital organs, to maintain the membranes of our cells, and to provide stability, taste and consistency to many of the foods that we eat.

Fats are found in meat, nuts, poultry, milk products, margarine and butter, lard, oil, fish, salad dressings and grain products. There are three primary types of fats: saturated fats, unsaturated fats, and Trans fats. Saturated fats are most commonly found in foods like cream, butter, lard and meat. Trans fats are found in baked goods, fried foods, snack foods and margarines. These trans fats have been shown to significantly increase your risk of heart disease and other health issues. It is important to replace trans fats and saturated fats with unsaturated fats in your diet. These unsaturated fats are found in foods like black olives, olive oils, nuts, avocados and canola oil. These fats can actually decrease the risk of developing heart disease, and can also promote health.

The main differences between fat and carbohydrates lie in what purposes they serve in the body. Carbohydrates provide most of the energy that our bodies need, but fats provide more concentrated bursts of energy. Fats help our bodies digest and absorb the nutrients that we take in, including a number of vital vitamins that our bodies need to survive. Carbohydrates on the other hand promote healthy growth in many of the organs in our bodies, including our kidneys, brain, our muscles, our heart and our central nervous system.

Arthritis Symptoms – A Guide to Helping You Understand

Tuesday, July 28th, 2009



In reality arthritis is an all encompassing terms that is used by many to cover a large group of in excess of 100 medical conditions with the common connection within this group of 100-plus conditions are that they all in some way affect the musculoskeletal system, in particular the joints. When taken as a group arthritis, and other associated conditions are one of the major contributing causes of disability in the world, and unless there are new medical breakthroughs, the overall situations stands to suffer even further.

Since there are in reality in excess of 100 unlike kinds of arthritis, the symptoms as well as the signs of this type of disease are therefore highly variable in nature. Nevertheless, provided that you comprehend just the basics of the various arthritis symptoms, then you will have a more informed knowledge and will be that much more prepared if, in the unfortunate instance, you yourself become afflicted from any of these symptoms or signs.

Some Of The Most Common Arthritis Symptoms

In point of fact there are too many dissimilar arthritis symptoms to add up, particularly in the consideration of all the numerous kinds of arthritis that are presently known and the reality that there are an infinite number of symptoms for each. Nevertheless, there are specific arthritis symptoms that are prevalent through all of the different kinds and it are these specific types which we will cover and discuss here.

One of the most common symptoms reported is that of persistent joint pain, and it can be experienced anywhere in a persons body, even though in most instances you will feel it in the places where your joints are located and used, for instance, your elbows, knees etc. A definite indication that there might be a problem of arthritis is pain or tenderness in your joints, particularly if you feel that it is agitated through the use of movement or activity, for instance, going for a walk, rising up from a chair, or even throwing a ball.

Excess fatigue is an additional type of common symptom, as those individuals who are afflicted from the condition of arthritis have a tendency to feel a sudden as well as unusual dramatic increase in their level or tiredness when they initially began to experience arthritis. This can also be accompanied by a lack of energy, as well as weakness, or an overall sense of malaise.

Treatments For Arthritis

If you have felt and of these previously talked about symptoms above, gone to see your physician and then diagnosed by him, then your next step is treatment. As mentioned previously there are many different types of treatment to select from, the determining factor depends on the specific type of of arthritis that you have and are suffering from.

Options for treatment differ from mild to very serious. for instance there are times when surgery is called for, and so you should work together with your physician so that you can come to the best decision possible for your benefit.

The treatment options vary from mild to very serious, such as surgery, and so you are going to have to work together with your doctor in order for the very best decisions to be able to be determined for you and your particular case.

Canine Arthritis Risk Factors

Monday, July 27th, 2009



As the owner of a dog with arthritis, I know how difficult it can be for you and your dog. Even though arthritis can occur in dogs of any breed or at any age, certain factors can greatly increase the risk of your dog developing cancer.

According to Novartis Animal Health the top factors are:

Genetic predisposition. You may be surprised to learn that up to 70% of certain breeds including Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds will eventually be affected with canine arthritis.

Obesity: Overweight dogs tend to develop arthritis years three years earlier than lean dogs so it is important to make sure that you control your dog’s weight.

Joint Abnormalities: Conditions such as hip dysplasia put extra stress on animal’s joins, increase a dog’s risk of arthritis. In addition if your dog has surgery such as a knee replacement surgery, like my Wanda did, your dog will likely develop arthritis around that joint.

Stress and Trauma: Injuries to ligaments, tissue and bones, and constant physically demanding activities also increase the risk by putting pressure on joints. To alleviate this, you can invest in a dog ramp or steps.

Infection: Bacterial, viral and fungal infections, including Ehrlichiosis, Lyme Disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever can affect joints and contribute to arthritis.

If your dog is diagnosed with canine arthritis, you have several options of treatment. Canine arthritis treatments include exercise, diet, supplements, and/or pain control medication. For more information on canine arthritis, visit http://www.allaboutdogcare.com.

Throat Thrush – Symptoms and Treatment

Saturday, July 25th, 2009



Throat thrush is a form of oral thrush which occurs in the throat. Also known as oral candida, it is a yeast infection which occurs when the naturally occurring candida yeast starts to grow in excess and cannot be effectively managed by the body.

Thrush can cause and uncomfortable burning sensation in the throat, but because of its positioning it can be quite difficult to determine what might be causing this sensation. Throat thrush will also be accompanied by small white spots which you may be able to see by looking into a mirror to the back of your throat. While these spots will cause no discomfort, they do have a tendency to bleed when scraped, making it quite unpleasant for a throat thrush sufferer to eat certain hard foods which may cause a scratching sensation.

The candida fungus which causes throat thrush is present in about 50% of the population, although many will never suffer a full blown throat thrush outbreak. Throat thrush can occur at any time but is often a symptom of a weakened immune system and that means it regularly occurs when the suffere is feeling run down, has suffered from flu or any other immune system weakening disease.

If you are suffering from throat thrush, or have suffered from yeast infections previously, you will be glad to know that help is at hand. New homeopathic remedies have been identified as the most effective treatment to both ease occurring yeast infections and prevent further yeast infections from reoccurring.

Yeastrol has been shown as the most effective treatment for throat thrush, as well as thrush occurring in other parts of the body. It is simple to use, being a spray which is taken in the mouth daily. The special formulation rebalances your body’s immune system to properly control the yeast overgrowth.

Folic Acid Benefits – Learn All You Need to Get the True Folic Acid Benefits

Friday, July 24th, 2009



Folic acid is one of the B vitamins and it is necessary for the production of red blood cells and normal metabolism. It is an important vitamin for pregnant women as it can prevent the occurrence of birth defects and prevents infant spinal cord defects – for example Spina bifida.

Folic acid may also help other conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, arthrosclerosis, heart disease, and diarrhea. It can also be helpful in treating epilepsy gingivitis, gout, and cancer – the risk of getting it is reduced.

Folic Acid Benefits

One of the best benefits of Folic Acid is for women who are trying to fall pregnant, and those who are pregnant. Folic Acid helps with the healthy development of the fetus, and can help to prevent conditions such as spina bifida and other neural tube defects that are known as devastating conditions.

To be honest, folic acid benefits go much further than just pregnancy. Folic Acid helps with keeping your heart healthy. The nutrient helps lower homocysteine levels; having high homocysteine impairs blood vessels, which, results in the arteries being vulnerable to the formation of plaque.

This can lead to a higher risk of one getting heart disease. It also known that, people who have trouble with depression, may find folic acid helpful because depression is associated with raised levels of homocysteine.

Further Folic Acid benefits in clued a feeling of energy, and it is known that this nutrient may help counter and combat Alzheimer’s disease.

Precautions

Folic acid can have some serious side effects if to much is taken every day. Dangerous levels of consumption are between 5,000 to 10,000 mcg. The RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) stands at 400 mcg per day, however certain people (especially pregnant women, those trying to conceive and the elderly) may need more of this particular nutrient in their diets.

Another point people need to consider is that taking Folic Acidi as a supplement can hide serious deficiency symptoms of vitamin B12 (anemia). Take a look at this we came cross in the following encyclopedia “New Encyclopedia Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, & Herbs” by Nicola Reavley “Large amounts of folic acid can mask anemia caused by Vitamin B12 deficiency. Although this is rare, in some cases it may lead to permanent nerve damage.” pg. 108

Because of this statement, the author of the book advises that people with anemia should not take more than 400 mcg of folic acid per day unless pernicious amenia is first ruled out by your doctor.
Some people suggest that Folic Acid should not be consumed as a stand alone supplement and taken with vitamin B12 or as part of a more comprehensive formula where not only b12 are used, but other important vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids.

Lets take a look at an example from, Reader’s Digest book “The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs” contains: Buy a folic acid supplement that also contains vitamin B12 (too much of one can mask a deficiency in the other).” pg 293

A deficiency of folic acid could cause some Anemias. The side effects of Folic Acid are rare and are normally due to taking high dosages of the nutrient. If any change occurs after starting a regimen of folic acid, contact your physician immediately. If necessary, go to an emergency facility for evaluation.

Precautions and allergic reactions from Folic Acid

Allergic reactions however, can be serious. Some signs of severe allergic reactions include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, and breathing difficulties. If you note anything that is not usual for you, seek medical attention right away.

Pregnant women and breast feeding mothers should consult their doctors before using this nutrient.

In recent news, reported is a unique piece of information that has been put out there that may be of interest to women who want to get pregnant. Folic acid, when taken after fertility treatment (invitro fertilization) may raise the odds of producing twins. While this is possible with other fertility treatments, it has been recently found to occur with folic acid.

Our Opinion

We believe many vitamins are best consumed through food sources; however, Folic Acid is not one of these nutrients. The nutrient is easily destroyed and the value of the nutrient is lessened by cooking or storage. On top of this, the human body doesn’t store the nutrient for very long. This is why we need to take this nutrient daily to keep on top. Because of what we have said, many experts suggest that supplements should be incorporated in to ones diet for one of the best sources of folic acid benefits, and also, for those people who need more of this nutrient.

There are still good food sources for Folic Acid however, which include, whole grains, various beans, and green vegetables.

On a final note, many foods today are fortified with this vitamin, although they are not the best sources and are far from natural sources.

Our Tips For Obtaining The Best Folic Acid Benefits

1. Nutritional have become unregulated. Studies have shown that consumers of health products only have a 1 in 5 chance of buying a product with the amount of ingredients stated on the label. Also, Products have been found to have dangerous contaminates in them.

Because of this, you should choose a manufacturer that is pharmaceutical GMP compliant. Such places comply with the most stringent manufacturing standards. This ensures you get a product with the stated ingredients, and also, ensures that there are no contaminants within your chosen product

Arthritis Treatment Through the Holistic Approach

Thursday, July 23rd, 2009



Arthritis is characterized by joint pain and inflammation and it affects quite a large percentage of people. There are varied and different forms of this disease and when left neglected can create much havoc. Among them are physical and mobility limitations, deformity and even debilitation. When one is living with arthritis, it can cause significant inconvenience. Arthritis treatment options are available, either through conventional methods or through the holistic approach to mention the basics. Many well know of conventional means for arthritis treatment. They can be through pharmaceutical drugs or certain procedures or even surgery. These are regarded as mainstream arthritis treatment measures.

But often, they come with side effects which entail other discomforts. Such is why there are those who turn to holistic medicine. The holistic approach for arthritis treatment is becoming quite popular. Holistic medicine offers a lasting relief from arthritic pain and inflammation. This approach to arthritis states that the disease is caused by several factors. Contributing to its different forms are not only physical imbalances but mental and environmental irregularities as well. To treat the disease properly requires an assessment of the factors which caused it. A battery of diagnostic tools are used to create an individual picture of the patient’s case.

Among these diagnostic tools are physical exams, emotional evaluations, dietary assessments and tests for the immune and digestive functions. The holistic medicine practitioner takes time in finding the root cause and the patient has an active participation in their treatment. There is a wide range of therapies in the holistic approach for arthritis treatment and even prevention. Chinese herbal medicine, stress reduction, detoxification, proper diet and nutrition are within these means of therapy. Massage and exercises, acupuncture and chiropractic are also resorted to for repair of nerves and muscles. The goal of holistic medicine is to achieve balance and health.

This approach believes that the contrary-ill health and disease- are caused by obstructions which impede the flow of energy in the organs. To restore energy and function to the system, holistic medicine makes use of Chinese herbs. When it comes to arthritic pain and inflammation, diet and nutrition are crucial. All in all, this alternative arthritis treatment aims on catering to the overall health of the patient. It is not only inclined towards providing superficial symptomatic relief. Through thorough tests and evaluations, imbalances are detected until the causes of arthritis are detected. It is then that treatment options are applied, and they are generally natural healing therapies.

Such therapies are geared towards restoring balance and harmony all throughout the system. This is not only in the physical sense, but in all aspects of the person. Natural arthritis treatment also makes use of natural supplements. One such product for natural joint protection is Joint Advance. With Joint Advance, joint health is supported the natural way. Joint Advance has herbal and organic ingredients thus side effects are less likely to occur. Joint Advance has been proven effective and it is guaranteed to offer joint pain relief. One can do away with the limitations of joint pain and healthy living can be enjoyed to the fullest.

All About Psoriatic Arthritis

Wednesday, July 22nd, 2009



Psoriatic arthritis is termed as a chronic disease. It is common among most people across the globe. The disease is usually characterized via inflammation of the skin and joints. The inflammation of the skin is medically termed as psoriasis and inflammation of the joints is known as arthritis.

This disease is very common among people between the ages of 40 and 60. Both males and females are affected equally by this disease. It is believed that the skin disease or psoriasis occur separately from the joint pain or the arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis can be referred to as a systemic rheumatic disease that has the potential to result in the body tissue inflammation. It may also affect other parts of the body such as the heart, eyes, kidneys and lungs.

This type of arthritis usually share several features with the arthritis of other types including reactive arthritis, arthritis related to Crohn’s disease, ankylosing spondylitis and arthritis related to ulcerative colitis.

Almost all these conditions may result in inflammation in the spine as well as other joints. The inflammation can also occur in the eyes, mouth, skin and several other organs.

A) Causes of this type of arthritis

There are several causes associated to this type of arthritis. However, the exact cause of this disease is unknown. It is believed that a blend of several genetic and immune factors in conjunction with several environmental factors is responsible for the occurrence of this disease. Patients suffering from this disease may suffer from inflammation of the skin. Certain genes such as HLA-B27 are responsible for the occurrence of this disease.

Several other genes have also been found responsible for this disease. Medical experts feel that some changes occurring in the immune system may play a significant role in developing psoriatic arthritis. Exposure to infection and changes in the environment are also responsible for this disease to occur.

B) Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis

If you want to treat a disease, it is extremely important to know about it at an early stage. This is the best way to rush for medical help and get the best of treatment available.

When it comes to psoriatic arthritis, a patient tends to experience inflammation of the skin as the primary symptoms. Of course, there are other symptoms such as inflammation of the joints, pain in the joints, swelling, and the skin getting hot and red. In some cases, inflammation of the joint in the fingers or toes can result in the swelling of the entire digit.

This results in the appearance of a sausage. Stiffness in the joints is the most common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. This condition may also result in inflammation of the spine and even the sacrum. This finally results in stiffness and pain in the lower back, neck, buttocks and upper back.

C) Treatments

The condition can be treated with a combination of anti-inflammatory medicines or NSAIDs and exercises. In progressive cases, more powerful medication such as corticosteroids, methotrexate and antimalarial medicines are prescribed. Early diagnosis is the best treatment.