Arthritis
Brief Definition:
Arthritis is one of the most widely known physical diseases
today. There are two main types of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, is
generally associated with old age and affects joints that
receive the most wear and tear, like knees, fingers and
toes. The second type is rheumatoid arthritis, which can
begin at any age and causes joints to become inflamed and
eventually deformed.
Common
Symptoms:Though rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint in
the body, the hands and especially the second finger joints
are most affected. Symptoms include: swelling, inflammation,
muscle pain (often accompanied by pain in the joints), and
pain in adjacent bones. Eventually, muscles, joints, bones
and even skin in the area may begin to deteriorate.
Rheumatoid arthritis can often be debilitating and severely
affect a person's quality of life.
Treatment:
Rheumatoid arthritis is often considered a disease of the
immune system, that is, the body begins to attack its own
cells and tissues. Most treatments prescribed are to reduce
swelling, inflammation and pain. Now, researchers believe
various food allergies such as milk, corn, beets or exposure
to environmental factors, such as chemical fumes. Each of
these can play an important part in the disease. By changing
diet and environmental factors, the symptoms and the cause
may be eliminated. The best action is to consult a physician
knowledgeable in the treatment of arthritis. The treatment
should address the cause of the illness and not just cover
up the symptoms with prescription medicine.
We hope
this information has been helpful. Please call Environmental
Health and Allergy Center - St. Louis at 314-921-5600 or
email us at ehacstl@ehacstl.com
for more information.
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