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7 mistakes that can aggravate rheumatoid arthritis

7 mistakes that can aggravate rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the inflammation of joints that leads to the degeneration of cartilage. The condition could be due to an autoimmune disease or due to wear and tear of the joints. It is estimated that over 50 million people (about 20% of the population) suffer from rheumatic conditions like arthritis. Avoiding certain habits could help lead a better life and manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Here are seven mistakes that can aggravate the condition:

Skipping treatment
It is one of the most common mistakes that can worsen arthritis symptoms. Most people skip treatment as soon as they start feeling better. However, the condition can recur and worsen the pain to the extent that the patient might need to visit an ER. Hence, it is vital to seek treatment on time and never skip dosage for proper management of diseases. Treatment options such as Tremfya® and Plaquenil are used for relieving joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Actemra® is another treatment option that blocks the action of a protein called interleukin 6.

Eating the following foods
Food and nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining optimum health. While it is essential to include some foods to get relief from rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, the following foods must be avoided to prevent aggravation:

  • Refined carbohydrates
    Refined carbohydrates such as white flour, rice, pasta, pizza, and many breakfast cereal have little to no nutrient value. Excess of these in daily diet can increase and even worsen arthritis symptoms. Consuming refined carbohydrates with refined sugar in the form of pastries and cakes can be a double whammy, as they can increase inflammation and its associated pain.
  • Processed foods
    Processed foods contain high amounts of preservatives in the form of MSG (Monosodium Glutamate), which can increase the amount of uric acid and sodium in the body. Excess uric acid in the body can crystallize joints, resulting in pain and inflammation.
  • Aerated drinks
    Aerated or carbonated drinks contain high amounts of sugar. These drinks increase the risk of suffering from obesity and diabetes but also reduce the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Low calcium levels in the body increase the risk of suffering osteoarthritis. Women with low calcium levels are more likely to suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Meat cooked at a high temperature
    There is an increase in the AGEs (advanced glycation end product) in the blood when we eat meats cooked at high temperatures. High levels of AGEs can aggravate inflammation in the body, worsening arthritis symptoms. Meats such as beef, pork, and fried fish are rich in AGEs. So, switching to leaner meats such as chicken and steamed fish will help manage arthritis better.
  • Gluten
    Gluten is a protein that helps bind the molecules of the grain together. However, the same gluten can worsen arthritis symptoms. People who are sensitive to gluten can experience inflammation in the body and can also suffer from osteoporosis (bone loss). This is because the immune system can accidentally attack gluten, considering it a harmful compound. Some gluten-rich foods such as bread, pasta, and cereal.
  • Omega-6 fatty acids
    Omega-6 fatty acids are found in food sources such as sunflower oil, corn oil, beef, and pork. High amounts of these fatty acids in the body can increase inflammation, which can make it difficult to manage arthritis. Hence, it is recommended to switch to omega-3 fatty acids that are present in foods like walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, freshwater fishes, and grass-fed beef.

Lifestyle mistakes

  • Leading a sedentary lifestyle
    A sedentary lifestyle is one of the biggest risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis. Lack of movement can weaken the joints, making it difficult to manage rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors suggest that some light-intensity exercises can relieve pain from arthritis and help bring stronger joints.
  • Performing high-intensity exercises
    Exercises are good for health, as they improve blood circulation in the body. However, extremely intense exercises can be counterproductive for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Joints tend to wear down, and there is a progression of its wear and tear with age. Thus, performing specific exercises damages the weakened joints and aggravates rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Not getting enough sleep
    Not getting enough rest can aggravate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Lack of sleep or poor sleeping habits can exacerbate pain and fatigue associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Relaxing before going to bed with meditation, deep breaths, or taking warm baths can provide relief from the pain associated with the disease.

Besides that, it would be wise to avoid the following:

  • Having a bad posture
    Bad posture can put excess load on weakened joints, which can worsen rheumatoid arthritis due to imbalanced pressure on joints. A good body posture reduces the pressure from the joints, thereby reducing the risk of suffering from arthritis in the hips and knees. Some equipment, such as back and joint braces, can help distribute even pressure on the joints. Simple exercises and a healthy lifestyle can also balance BMI (body mass index), thereby avoiding excess pressure on joints.
  • Wearing high heels
    High heels can put a lot of pressure on the hips and knees, which can aggravate arthritis symptoms. The cartilage surrounding the joints usually gets damaged due to constant pressure, resulting in pain and inflammation. Wearing footwear with soft padded soles can also provide relief from foot pain due to arthritis.
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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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3 crucial tips for managing lung cancer

Cancer may develop in the lungs due to radiation therapy, asbestos, and carcinogens. Factors such as genetics may also trigger the development of lung cancer. There are more than 236,000 new cases of this disorder and its types every year. Those who develop lung cancer may notice symptoms including chest pains, hoarseness, and bone pain that turn severe with time. Here are three tips for one to manage lung cancer. Start a treatment plan The first tip for coping with lung cancer is to start a treatment plan as soon as the condition is diagnosed. There are two common types of lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). SCLC therapies About 20 of every 100 people with lung cancer are diagnosed with SCLC. This type of cancer is also fast growing compared to other lung cancer types. Preferred treatments for small cell lung cancer include chemotherapy, which involves eliminating lung cancer cells that may have spread outside the lung. Furthermore, radiation therapy is used for treating small cell lung cancer when the tumor is limited to the lung or areas inside the chest. The two therapies are often combined in such cases. Prescription for NSCLC NSCLC is a more common type of lung cancer that spreads gradually and much slower than small cell lung cancer. GAVRETO® (pralsetinib) helps treat adults affected with NSCLC. The treatment is also administered to adults and kids 12 years of age and older, affected with advanced thyroid cancer or when the condition has spread. The capsule is given by mouth once daily as prescribed by a healthcare expert. The expert will also conduct a test to assess if Gavreto is suitable for the patient. Eat appropriate meals Apart from getting on a treatment plan, it is equally important for a person to eat the right foods. Doing so will help boost their immune system and fight cancer symptoms. One should consume foods rich in proteins like eggs, beans, soy products, nuts, and low-fat dairy to keep the organs healthy. Adding edibles like fruits and vegetables to meals can nourish the body with phytonutrients and antioxidants. Such compounds are essential to prevent and reduce cell damage. Avocados, seeds, olive oil, and nuts are a few sources of omega-3 fatty acids and other healthy fats. These fats are known to complement the nervous system and brain. Eating foods abundant in omega-3 fatty acids can also reduce inflammation. Introducing meals rich in carbohydrates can help an individual build their energy levels. Building energy levels is especially useful after one undergoes treatments for their health condition. Healthy sources of carbohydrates include oatmeal, brown rice, whole-wheat bread, and whole-grain pasta. One should also avoid foods that may worsen the symptoms of lung cancer. These foods may also trigger side effects if the person is currently on treatment for their condition. A few foods to avoid include salty foods, processed meat, soda, fried foods, and cold cuts. These foods contain preservatives and other compounds that can trigger symptoms of lung cancer. For example, the sodium content in salty foods may cause fluid retention and result in shortness of breath in patients with lung complications. Make lifestyle changes The lifestyle one follows plays an important role in their recovery or cancer treatment. A few ways to manage cancer symptoms are as follows: Managing stress levels By managing stress levels, one can regulate mental and physical health. Relaxation techniques like mediation, guided imagery, and yoga can improve how they cope with cancer symptoms. One must take a few moments in the day to practice these techniques to be mindful of their surroundings. Sleeping appropriately Getting a sufficient amount of sleep is imperative when it comes to patients with lung cancer. Sleeping for seven to eight hours each night will improve the individual's coping mechanism, weight, memory, control, health, and focus. To get proper sleep, one must follow a bedtime routine and keep their room as dark as possible. Moving to cooler rooms can help improve one's quality of sleep. Furthermore, avoiding excessive time on an electronic device before bed and steering clear of stimulants like caffeine and sugar will ensure a good night's rest. Regular exercise Indulging in various forms of exercises may help a person reduce fatigue, build their strength, and stay in shape. Exercise is extremely useful when a person is undergoing treatment for cancer or when they complete therapy. Developing a fitness routine, including strength exercise and aerobic activities, are a few ways to maintain overall health. Simple activities like walking or balancing the time one spends sitting or standing are also beneficial exercise routines. Seeking support Being affected by any form of cancer or other diseases can be overwhelming for anyone. So to improve one's ability to cope and live with their condition, one must seek appropriate support from others. Enrolling in a social support group can help one learn more about their condition and share their feelings with others who have a similar diagnosis. One can also speak to their family members or friends, which is an ideal way to manage the condition.

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