Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two different diseases that are most often confused with each other due to the similar symptoms. What are their differences and is there a common treatment for both of them? Find out the expert answers in this article.
The research paper that has been released by Terrebonne Gen. Medical centre (TGMC) entitled "osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid arthritis" states that the pain should be evaluated by a doctor.
Even though the symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis might be similar, but their long-term effects are quite different. If rheumatoid arthritis is left without treatment, it can lead to substantial damage to the joints and deformities in the other parts of the body.
Another difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is that while osteoarthritis is the result of "wear and tear" of the joints through many years and is usually found in people around the age of 50; rheumatoid arthritis is not caused due to "wear and tear", but it causes "wear and tear" and is also found in children, adults and elderly people.
Rheumatoid arthritis is considered to be an "inflammation autoimmune disorder". It implies that the body becomes incapable to identify itself to the bottom of its cellular level. As the natural response of the body immune system is to attack the foreign bodies that are not part of the body, so the body naturally launches an attack when it doesn't recognize any part of the body as a part of itself.
In case of rheumatoid arthritis, the body misinterprets cartilage, bone or fluid as an invader and sends signal to the immune system to launch an attack. Therefore, white blood cells are sent to the area as a means of fighting infection and inflammatory compounds are produced, even though the fact is that there is no infection in reality. This leads to redness, swelling and pain in the joints.
The immune system is quite complex and this is just a very simplistic explanation to explain the major differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis; so that people can opt for professional diagnosis and take necessary action for early treatment.
In the report "osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid arthritis" released by TGMC, the author warns that if left without adequate treatment, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to a serious damage to the joints in just a matter of 2 years. In fact, early diagnosis and effective treatment is required right from the early stages in order to prevent further development of the disease. In many cases, people go into remission period, where the symptoms recede for a temporary period.
Omega-3 fatty acids are one of the most effective, natural and side effect free alternative for treatment of arthritis conditions. There is substantial evidence that they help to reduce arthritis pain, prevent deformities, improve the joint mobility and reduce tenderness in joints and morning stiffness. Fish oil and its purified supplements are one of the best sources of Omega 3 fatty acids.
Similarly, the green lipped mussel found in New Zealand is another wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids. It also helps effectively in reducing pain and joint stiffness, improve joint mobility and grip strength in patients suffering from osteoarthritis.
To sum up, in case you are suffering from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, an inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet in the form of fish oil supplements can help significantly to reduce inflammation and provide effective pain relief. You should consult your doctor and take the most appropriate action.
No comments:
Post a Comment