*MANAGING ARTHRITIS* My daughter, can NSAIDs cure this pain? No dad, they only help in management. This was a real conversation And it reflects what many of our parents face daily. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can become a lifelong companion if not managed properly. *WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?* Arthritis simply means inflammation of the joints. But it is not a single disease. It’s an umbrella term for over 100 different joint related conditions. How do they present? They present with pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced mobility in affected joints *MOST COMMON TYPES* 5 most common types of arthritis include: *- Osteoarthritis* Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the joints. It is often seen in older adults and affects the knees, hips and hands. *- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)* RA is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks the lining of it’s own joints. It can affect people as young as 30-40, mostly seen in women and inflammation is the key problem here. *- Gout* Also called “disease of kings”, gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It is due to a high purine diet, alcohol and poor kidney function. *- Psoriatic arthritis* This occurs in people with psoriasis, which is an autoimmune skin condition. It can cause sausage-like swelling in fingers and toes. *- Ankylosing spondylitis* This is also an autoimmune disease that affects the spine, especially the lower back. It is mostly seen in men, and can start as young as 40 *WHAT INCREASES RISK OF ARTHRITIS* Many factors contribute to arthritis, and they include: - Genetics: A family history increases your chances - Aging: Wear and tear of the joints over time - Gender: Rheumatoid arthritis is mostly seen in women, and gout is mostly seen in men - Joint injuries: Previous injuries from sports or accidents - Obesity - Poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle - Smoking and alcohol use - Autoimmune conditions like lupus - Hormonal changes during menopause *SYMPTOMS TO WATCH OUT FOR* - Morning joint stiffness that lasts more than 30minutes - Swollen, tender or warm joints - Difficulty moving a joint - Tiredness or low grade fever - Sudden severe pain in one joint *WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?* - See a doctor early and don’t self medicate - Request blood tests to check for rheumatoid arthritis and uric acid levels - Carry out an X-ray or MRI scan to assess joint damage - Track your symptoms, when it hurts and activities that trigger it *COMPREHENSIVE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES* The goal is to preserve joint function and maintain quality of life. *1. Exercise* Engage in low impact movements like walking, swimming and yoga. They improve joint mobility and strengthens supporting muscles. *2. Eat an anti inflammatory diet* Focus on: - Fruits and vegetables (Leafy vegetables and berries) - Omega 3 fatty acids - Nuts, turmeric, ginger and olive oil. *3. Maintain a healthy weight* Even a 5kg weight loss can significantly reduce knee pain in osteoarthritis. *4. Medications* Medications help a lot with arthritic pain, however they should be used responsibly and under the supervision of a doctor. Wondering what medication is right for you? Please visit a hospital today. 5. Hot and cold therapy Use hot pads or baths to relieve stiffness, and use ice packs to reduce inflammation and swelling. *6. Mental and emotional support* Arthritis can be draining. Try to join or get your parents to join a support group or consider therapy if depression sets in. *SUPPLEMENTS AND HERBS THAT HELP* - Turmeric: Curcumin present in turmeric helps block inflammatory pathways, and is comparable with ibuprofen in mild OA. For better results, combine with black pepper. - Omega-3 fatty acids: Reduces joint inflammation especially in rheumatoid arthritis. - Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Supports regeneration of cartilage and may slow progression. Others include: - Calcium and magnesium - Vitamin D - Collagen type 2 - Boswellia Serrata (Indian frankincense) - Methylsulfonylmethane - Willow bark extract Supplements support but they do not replace lifestyle changes and treatment. Always discuss with your pharmacist or doctor before incorporating any of them. *CAN ARTHRITIS BE CURED* No, arthritis cannot be cured. It can only be managed. However, patients can live pain free and have a good quality of life with proper management. - Identify symptoms on time - Speak to a doctor - Modify your lifestyle - Stay adherent to medications.