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| Posted: 15 Feb 2009 08:55 | ||
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Posts: 27 Join Date: May 2005 |
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There are several types of arthritis
Osteoarthritis is the result when the lining of joints begins to wear out. The most common cause of this is the aging process, but athletes, landscapers and manual laborers also are prone to developing this condition earlier because of the constant wear on their joints. As the lining wears away, pain and stiffness develop because there is no longer a cushion to protect the sensitive nerves, muscle and bones. Osteoarthritis commonly develops in the knees, hips, wrists and hands. Treatment consists of over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, hot or cold packs, menthol or capsaicin rubs, and topical castor oil. Low-impact exercise such as walking, water aerobics and swimming are beneficial. Alternative treatments include glucosamine and chondroitin supplements and MSM. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is not the result of age-related deterioration; rather, it is caused by the body's own defenses. Mild cases can last from a few months to a year or two, while severe cases can last for several years or even a lifetime and lead to serious joint damage. The most common symptoms include joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Some may experience fatigue, fever, weight loss, firm bumps of tissue under the skin on the arms, red, puffy hands and joint tenderness. Symptoms generally appear in small joints. Over time, the knees, hips, jaw, shoulders, neck and elbows may become affected. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the body's white blood cells (infection fighters) when they move from the bloodstream to the membranes that surround the joints. They appear to cause the synovium to become inflamed, which releases proteins that may lead to thickening of the membrane. Cartilage, bone, ligaments and tendons can become affected, which, over time, causes the bone to lose its proper shape. There is no cure for RA, but several treatments are available. Ibuprofen and naproxen sodium are helpful in reducing inflammation in mild cases and are available over the counter or in stronger doses as prescriptions. Some people may need temporary treatment with steroids and other medications. __________________ Add Your link to Health Directory
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