4 Types of Food to Avoid If You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis

I've seen a lot of articles lately that talk about how important early detection, and treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is. No kidding, but what kind of treatments might they recommend? Steroids and biologics of course. Diet is never offered as a treatment and when mentioned the only guideline is to follow a "healthy diet." What does that even mean? For anyone with RA it means you'll need to stay away from the following foods.

1. Dairy. (Milk, Cheese, Butter) Dairy has been tied to other auto-immune diseases like Diabetes, as well as Heart Disease and even food allergies. Many people have a sensitivity to Dairy and those with auto-immune diseases such as RA seem to be more sensitive.

2. Grains. (Wheat, Barley, Oats, etc...) Celiac Disease is an auto-immune disease associated with RA. Celiac patients are advised to follow a gluten free diet, suggesting that the elimination of glutens would be beneficial to patients with RA as well.

3. Nightshades. (Potatoes, Tomatoes, Eggplant, Peppers and Tobacco) These foods have an inflammatory effect on arthritis. Dr. John Pagano does a good job explaining the effect of nightshades on arthritis and psoriasis in his book Healing Psoriasis: The Natural Alternative. You may also want to check out this explanation on nightshades from The Worlds Healthiest Foods.

4. Meat. (Beef, Pork, Poultry, and yes, even fish). It seems there is more information every day on the ill effects that meat has on our bodies. Patient testimonials from places like The Gerson Institute and Hippocrates Health Institute show positive results from a vegan diet related to RA and other forms of arthritis and auto-immune diseases. There are also stories from people who have not visited these centers but have taken their treatment in their own hands and succeeded on such a diet.

According to a study by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden a gluten free vegan diet has a positive effect on RA and Cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is common in people with RA so this study is good news for anyone looking to improve their overall health, not just RA itself.

By avoiding the above foods, especially when first diagnosed, it will go a long way in helping you manage your RA. Check out an article by Dr. Scot Lewey titled Foods May Contribute to Rheumatoid Arthritis Through a Leaky Gut - The Gut-Joint Axis for more information on the relationship between leaky gut syndrome (caused by toxins, poor diet, medications, etc...) and RA. Also check out the set of case studies by Andrew W. Saul of doctoryourself.com which discusses the impact diet has on RA. Andrew was also featured in the film Food Matters which I highly recommend.

Psoriatic Arthritis Along With Pustular Arthritis & Steps For a Cure

Psoriatic arthritis, a chronic disease, is characterized by inflammation or swelling of skin (psoriasis) and joints (arthritis). It features patchy, red areas of human skin with inflammation and scaling. Psoriasis frequently affects the tips of our elbows and knees, the scalp, around the genital areas and the navel. Approximately 30% of patients who get psoriasis also develop an inflammation of joints. And patients having inflammatory arthritis and psoriasis are mostly diagnosed for having psoriatic arthritis.

The beginning of psoriatic arthritis is generally found in the fourth and fifth decade of human life. Gents and ladies are equally affected. The skin disease and the arthritis often appear separate. In fact, the psoriasis precedes the joint disease in about 80% of patients. But sometimes the arthritis also precedes the psoriasis in 15% of patients. In some people, the diagnosis of this arthritis may become difficult if the joint disease precedes psoriasis by long years. In fact, some patients have arthritis for more than 20 years before psoriasis actually appears! But also, patients have psoriasis for more than 20 years prior to arthritis development, leading to the diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis. This type of arthritis is nothing but a systemic rheumatic disease that can cause inflammation in body tissues other than the skin, such as in eyes, lungs, heart, and kidneys. It shares several other arthritic conditions, like ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis (formerly known as Reiter's syndrome), and also arthritis associated along with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. All these conditions may cause inflammation or swelling in the spine and other joints also, and the eyes, mouth, skin, and various other organs. According to their similarities and tendency to give rise to inflammation of spine, these conditions are conjointly called as "spondyloarthropathies."

Genetic problems, disorder in immune system as well as atmospheric changes are the most important causes of this disease. In patients with the above cited disease who have arthritis of spine, a gene named HLA-B27 is frequently found. Blood testing is now available to test this. Several others are also found to be more common in patients with this arthritis. Some changes in immune system may be important sometimes in its development. For example, the decline in the number of helper T cells in AIDS patients plays a role in the development and progression of the disease psoriasis in patients. Now-a-days the importance of these infectious agents and also other environmental factors in the cause of this arthritis is investigated by researchers.

Pustular psoriasis is also one of the several types of psoriasis which causes parts of our skin to redden, expand and covered by pus-filled blisters called as pustules. There are also several subtypes of this psoriasis. It may stay confined to small areas of patients' body; some times, just on the palms of our hands, the soles of our feet, or the fingers and toes are harmed and this is called the focal form of this disease. But It also can cover larger areas of the body as well. The generalized form which is also called as von Zumbusch psoriasis is more serious, and this form can also be fatal. For its cure we have to follow the same steps as in normal psoriasis like, reducing stress, smoking, drinking and dealing a healthy life. Its treatment also follows the three processes that are, topical, light therapy and systemic.

Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis - How to Deal With Pain Without Drugs?

Rheumatoid arthritis is not caused by aging, instead this condition is caused when your immune system starts to attack your joints for an unknown reason. When your immune system attacks these areas inflammation results, and this causes pain, problems with joint movement and function, tissue and bone damage, deformities, and even fatigue and a higher temperature. This fever affects the entire body, not just the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can be extremely painful, and affects all ages and ethnic backgrounds. Because of the pain, which can be debilitating at times, many people take narcotic pain medications or other drugs to become more comfortable and increase their movement ability. It is possible to manage the pain of this condition without harmful drugs though, and using alternative methods can be just as effective at relieving your symptoms and pain as anything your doctor can prescribe. In addition there are no risky side effects or mental dullness that pain medication may include with drug free treatments.

One very effective technique that can help with rheumatoid arthritis involves the use of heat and cold compresses or packs. Applying heat or cold to the joints that are affected can give you some relief, and the choice will depend on whether the pain is acute or chronic. A general guideline is that cold compresses and ice packs will work best if you suffer from acute pain, while chronic pain will usually respond better to a heat pack or compresses. Another step that can help minimize your discomfort is to exercise as much as you can within your specific physical limitations. If you do not use the joints then they will start to stiffen up, increasing the pain every time you move them. Exercises for range of motion in each joint will prevent this, and help decrease your pain in the long term.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis it is important that you stay positive and upbeat as much as possible. Your mental attitude plays a big part in the pain you experience, and depression can cause pain to be felt more severely. If you start to feel down or have negative thoughts make a conscious effort to reverse this thinking pattern and try to look at any positive things in your life. Laughter is an excellent way to minimize pain from rheumatoid arthritis, and this has been scientifically proven regardless of the cause of the pain. When you laugh your brain releases chemicals which minimize the pain impulses and improve your mood, making the pain seem much more manageable. Fill your life with people who make you laugh and help you stay in a positive frame of mind. Other treatments that do not involve drugs can include massage, acupuncture, relaxation techniques and training, electrical stimulation which increases the natural endorphins released by your brain, topical applications which will decrease the pain sensitivity of the nerves, and others.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar on Psoriasis: Have You Tried It Yet?

That's right, vinegar. It's that clear zesty liquid which you pour all over fish & chips, make tasty salad dressing from, and according to thousands, cure your psoriasis with. It sounds suspicious, doesn't it? How can acidic vinegar, the same type that is used as a disinfectant to kill bacteria and clean tough stains, actually be good for your skin? We're here to find out.

The use of ACV for cosmetic purposes and as a treatment for different skin conditions can be traced back all the way through history. It has been found in Egyptian urns dating to 3000 BC, it was used by Romans for healing purposes and as a wound disinfectant during the American civil war. Apart from that, ACV was fashionable during the 19th century, when it was bottled with different essential oils and sold as vinegar de toillete. Unsurprisingly, we don't see many perfumes marketed as having vinegar nowadays. It has a very pronounced smell (it stinks!) However, don't let that distract you from trying it out on your psoriasis; there are hundreds of testimonials in books and forums that apple cider vinegar can reduce itchiness, alleviate scalp psoriasis, reduce the inflammation of psoriatic arthritis... you name it, it can do it.

So, how does it work? The magic of ACV is that it is reported to make pH levels in and on your body more alkaline. According to some theories, this is beneficial because psoriasis is connected to an acidic body state. This pH imbalance is the result of the modern diet, which is over-dependent on acidic foods. As the pH levels plummet in the digestive tract, it can lead to "leaky gut syndrome", which eventually leads to toxins being released through your skin! This is when psoriasis pops up.

Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for Psoriasis

Using apple cider vinegar internally is a popular treatment for psoriasis. All you have to do is mix 1 tablespoon of raw ACV in a glass of water and sip it slowly. Repeat this three times a day, and space it out throughout the day to make sure your body is in a continual alkalized state.

If you want the best apple cider vinegar for your psoriasis, make sure it is organic! It should be made from nothing but apples - no preservatives or other ingredients. Furthermore, the best brands have the "Mother" inside them. Essentially, this is a little tangled clot of enzymes, bacteria and living nutrients. It is created during the fermentation process and is the most nutritious thing in the whole bottle!

However, make sure to take the following precautions. Don't forget to rinse afterwards (as ACV can erode your tooth enamel), and for heaven's sake dilute it! Otherwise it can injure your throat and esophagus.

The brands that come highly recommended are Bobby's Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, Holland & Barrett's English ACV and Bragg's Raw - Unfiltered ACV.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar on Psoriasis

Apart from using it internally, you can also use it externally. It promotes blood circulation in the small capillaries of the skin, has antiseptic qualities which prevent bacteria, viruses and yeast from aggravating your psoriasis, and regulates pH levels on the skin. You might need to squeeze your nostrils shut with a clothes peg to stomach the smell, but it only lasts for a few minutes. When it dries, the smell evaporates away with it.

One way to use ACV externally is to take a vinegar bath 3 times a week. It's great for calming the effects of psoriasis over the whole body. To prepare one, start filling the tub with lukewarm water and mix in 2 cupfuls of apple cider vinegar as the water rises to the top. To make it a bit more nose-friendly and take advantage of aromatherapy, you can also add a few drops of lavender or chamomile oil. After that, soak in the tub for 30 minutes and just rinse of the water in a quick shower afterwards.

The other way is to dab it onto your psoriasis patches directly and rub it in. You can do it in the evening and leave it on overnight to get the most benefits. Applying it directly to tough skin - such as the scalp, the elbows and the torso is okay, but dilute it if it will be going anywhere near the face. To use it throughout the day, you can buy a small spray bottle / atomizer and squirt your spots here and there. The smell is temporary and can be masked easily by using aftershave and eau de toilette. Lastly, for fingernail and toenail psoriasis, just soak them in ACV for 5 minutes at a time; the quality of your nails will improve tenfold!

Apple cider vinegar might be one of most wallet-friendly treatments for psoriasis on the planet and it attacks the stubborn skin condition from all directions, inside-out and outside-in. Just remember, it takes a minimum of 2 weeks to start seeing any improvements, so wait a while before making your mind up. Who knows, maybe you'll join the existing number of psoriasis sufferers who practically swear by apple cider vinegar. It's doesn't just make tasty salt & vinegar crisps, it saves skin!

Failure to Diagnose Septic Arthritis, What Should I Do?

Septic arthritis, also sometimes referred to as bacterial arthritis, reactive arthritis, along with several other clinical names, is a type of infection that affects the joint spaces of the body. The infection can be caused by a number of different types of microorganisms, such as bacteria. The most common culprit is the bacteria known as staphylococcus aureus. Of all the joints in the body, the knee joint is the one that is most commonly affected by this type of infection.

There are a number of different ways that organisms can enter the joints, including by means of a consequence from a surgical incision. It is estimated that twenty thousand cases result in the United States every year.

There are three main symptoms of septic arthritis that patients should be aware of. These include: a spike in temperature above one hundred and one degree Fahrenheit, joint swelling, and sharp pain in the joint especially in the days immediately following surgery.

The issue of septic arthritis is most definitely an emergency medical condition that needs to be addressed immediately. Without prompt medical attention, including a proper diagnosis (and in some cases even with prompt medical attention), the infection can become so severe that it damages the articular cartilage and can lead to infections of the blood. When this happens serious injuries and even death can occur.

As soon as septic arthritis is suspected or symptoms are present, the surgeon should arrange to perform an arthrocentesis. This is a type of procedure that removes fluid from the space in the joint. The fluid is then sent to a laboratory so that a culture can be performed. Since joint infections can spread quickly and become so serious, antibiotics are often administered before the culture results are returned. If there is an infection found, the fluid should be drained by means of an incision and all infected tissue should be removed.

As previously mentioned, septic arthritis usually causes severe discomfort in the affected joint, swelling and fever. Other symptoms of note include: poor appetite, tachycardia (otherwise known as a rapid heartbeat), warmth to the area that has been affected, irritability, and malaise.

If you are currently taking other medications to help control arthritis pain and discomfort, the severe pain associated with septic arthritis may not be felt as much because medication often masks the pain as well as the elevated body temperature.

Adults most commonly find their knees are the most affected by the condition of septic arthritis, and in some cases the joints of the arms as well. Children are most often affected in the area of their hips. Septic arthritis in the hip region can cause children to have to hold their hips in a fixed position in order to avoid any type of movement, which causes pain.

More rare cases of septic arthritis can affect the neck, back, and head.

It is critical that treatment for septic arthritis be prompt and make use of the proper antibiotics as well as drainage of the fluid from the joints. This combination often is enough to resolve the infection. That being said, if treatment is put off for any reason, the infection can spread which can cause permanent joint damage and degeneration.

In addition to joint damage and degeneration, other complications of septic arthritis include joint deformity and osteoarthritis. There are even cases that require the joint to be completely reconstructed surgically. In the event that the infection impacts a prosthetic joint, it may be necessary to replace that prosthetic joint.

To help make a definitive and correct septic arthritis diagnosis, a joint fluid analysis (as discussed above) needs to be completed. This will provide medical staff with the information needed to determine the exact bacterium that is causing the infection so that proper treatment can be administered. The fluid around your joints, also known as synovial fluid, typically appears thick and clear. When bacteria have affected this fluid, the color, volume, makeup, and consistency of the synovial fluid will change. In addition to fluid tests, blood tests should also be ordered. This is done to help medical professionals determine if bacteria have made their way to the blood stream. Furthermore, imaging tests are also commonly used. Tests such as x-rays or other forms of imaging are done to determine the extent of damage that may have been done to the joint.

Any time you or someone you know has been injured following a surgical procedure, such as is the case with septic arthritis, it is important that you contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. These types of injuries can be avoided, and they should be avoided at all costs. In the event that a complication such as septic arthritis does occur, it is important that the proper medical attention be given in a timely manner. Delaying treatment for any reason, or making an incorrect diagnosis, is another type of medical negligence or malpractice. If this happens, you also need to contact a personal injury attorney promptly to help protect your legal rights.

Personal injury attorneys who specialize in the area of medical negligence and malpractice know the ins and outs of this area of the law extremely well. He or she will work hard to seek the compensation you deserve, and help you to cover past, present, and future medical bills. Compensation can also be obtained for loss of income, loss of use, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be sought in order to punish those who caused the initial harm.

These cases can be quite complex in nature and should not be handled on your own; professional legal assistance provides your best bet for a positive outcome. Since personal injury attorneys do not typically require any type of payment upfront, you will not have to worry about funding your claim as it progresses through the legal system. This can provide a great deal of comfort, and allow you to focus on your personal health and recovery.

Arthritis in Cats - Holistic Treatment Options

Studies have shown that 30% of cats over 8 years of age, and a stunning 90% of cats over 12 years of age, have arthritis (osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease). These figures should give the veterinary community, which doesn't give nearly as much thought to arthritis in cats as it does to dogs, something to think about. What is generally perceived as "slowing down" or "a little stiff" may be a sign of significant joint deterioration, and probably causes some degree of discomfort in most older cats.

Arthritic cats often gradually stop jumping up as high as they once did, and may be reluctant to use the stairs. (Arthritis can cause litterbox problems if there is not a box on every level of the home.) Providing "steps" (a box or stool, for instance) up to a bed, chair, or other favorite high spots may be greatly appreciated by an older cat.

Cats cannot adequately metabolize many of the arthritis and pain medications commonly given to dogs, such as carprofen (Rimadyl). Moreover, ibuprofen (Advil), naproxyn (Aleve), and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are all highly toxic to both cats and dogs. Meloxicam (Metacam) is a newer NSAID that is commonly used for post-operative pain but only for a short time. Some experts claim it can be given long-term at a very low dose, but others are wary of the significant potential for kidney damage in cats. Aspirin can be used, but the dose and schedule are extremely limited; never give your cat aspirin without your vet's advice.

The good news is that there are simple, inexpensive nutritional supplements that are very effective and, most important, very safe. Supplements for arthritis include: glucosamine sulfate (250 mg per day), and MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) (200-400 mg per day). Both of these supplements have excellent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Glucosamine supplies the basic building blocks of cartilage and helps maintain the fluid that cushions and nourishes the joints, and MSM provides elemental sulfur for the body to make certain amino acids and other compounds. But they are not quick fixes-it may take 3-5 weeks for improvement to be noticeable (MSM may take less or more time), and they must be given daily without fail to prevent return of pain. They may not work in all cats. But many guardians notice significant improvement in their cat's activity and flexibility. Glucosamine is often packaged together with chondroitin, another cartilage compound. However, the evidence is less clear that chondroitin is effective, and it is much more expensive. Plain glucosamine (sulfate only, not hydrochloride) is adequate in most cases.

Another cartilage building block, hyaluronic acid, is also available in oral form. This is the basic ingredient of Adequan, a drug commonly injected directly into affected joints. However, these injections need to repeated regularly and there is always a risk of infection. Hyaluronic acid now comes in oral capsules, but the most effective form appears to be a saline-based liquid called "Hyalun."  A cat would need at most a few drops per day, although if you also have dogs (or if you have joint problems yourself!) it is a good way to go.

Some herbs, such as Boswellia (frankincense), appear to be effective anti-inflammatories, but few herbs have been thoroughly studied for safety in cats. Boswellia is traditionally used in combination with other herbs in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Since some herbs can be extremely toxic to cats, it's best to consult with a veterinarian trained in the use of western or Chinese herbs (see below).

The antioxidant algae blend, BioSuperfood (read more about this in the Little Big Cat Free Article Library) may also minimize the inflammation and pain of arthritic joints.

Omega-3 fatty acids also have excellent anti-inflammatory properties; we recommend Nordic Naturals pet products for their purity and safety.

From a holistic viewpoint, no physical condition is simply physical. In energetic terms, disease, including arthritis, starts on the energetic plane and progresses through the mental and emotional spheres before manifesting itself in the physical body. One way to address this is through the use of flower essences, which can heal the imbalances on the mental and emotional planes. Another way to look at this is that mental "stiffness" ultimately contributes to stiffening of the physical joints. Our sister company, Spirit Essences, has developed an essence remedy called Creak-Away that's designed to keep the animal mentally and emotionally "flexible" and minimize the energetic stresses that contribute to the development of arthritis.

Acupuncture, chiropractic, herbs, homeopathy, specific nutritional strategies and other holistic treatments may also be helpful for arthritic cats. For a practitioner in your area, visit or call the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association at (410) 569-0795.

Diet For Arthritis - Natural Arthritis Remedies For Pain Relief

Is there a diet for arthritis? There are more than 100 forms of arthritis. Arthritis attacks the joints and can inhibit your mobility. The affected area is often painful, swollen and inflamed. Arthritis can rob you of sleep, decrease your ability to move and prevent you from doing some of the activities that you enjoyed before you were stricken with the disease. In short, arthritis is an insidious disease and if you have it, taking steps to remedying it should be a top priority.

One of the best ways to control arthritis is through your diet. Some foods are natural antioxidants, and contain vitamins, minerals and nutrients that your body needs to repair the damage that arthritis causes, and to stop the disease from spreading.

Here is a list of foods you should add to your diet to halt arthritis:

Salmon

Salmon is an amazing food that is rich in good fat. Salmon contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which is ideal for fighting arthritis. Salmon also contains Vitamin C, Vitamin D and folate. Salmon not only reduces the pain of arthritis, but it also protects your cardiovascular system. What more could you ask for in a food?

Green Tea

Green tea is a wonder drink! It contains hundreds of antioxidants, as well as polyphenols, which are believed to be able to ease the pain of arthritis, much like an anti-inflammatory would. Green tea also prevents cancer and heart disease. If you've never tried green tea before, it's about time that you did, especially if you suffer from arthritis.

The Banana

Bananas may look like nothing special, but beneath their yellow skin is a treasure trove of Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, potassium and folate. Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C are two of the best Vitamins for fighting arthritis.

Mangosteen

Mangosteen is a fruit that contains an antioxidant called xanthone. Most people haven't even heard of this fruit, but meanwhile, it is one of the best natural remedies for arthritis. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory, but the problem is, it can't be bought just anywhere. However, you can order it, or find it in juice form.

A diet rich in the foods mentioned above will not only reduce arthritis pain and inflammation, but help you to lose weight as well. A healthy diet can go a long way in fighting arthritis. Since arthritis attacks the joints, the less weight or pressure those joints have to handle on a daily basis, the better your symptoms are going to be.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. If you really want to beat arthritis you need a plan. Research has shown that exercise, consuming superfoods and raising the body's pH level alone can begin working to reverse arthritis in as little as 7 days. You can stop the scourge of arthritis and live a normal pain-free life.