Different Types of Arthritis

Arthritis is not a single disease; it represents more than 100 conditions that affect more than 46 million adults and 300,000 children in the United States alone, the Arthritis Foundation reports. All of these different types of arthritis are related in that they affect the joints, which is where two bones meet, causing inflammation, pain and stiffness. Various forms of arthritis may be caused by infections, such as mycoplasma arthritis, viral arthritis, syphilitic arthritis and gonococcal arthritis, but the most common types of arthritis are not caused by infections.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic condition, is an autoimmune disease--caused by the body's own immune system attacking the cells that line the joints. This causes damage to the joints resulting in swelling, pain and stiffness that can lead to a loss of function. RA affects about 1.3 million Americans; women are two to three times more likely to develop the disease than men, and the onset of disease is usually between ages 30 and 60 but can occur at any age, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.

Rheumatoid arthritis is different from other types of arthritis because it is symmetrical. This means that if the right knee is affected, the left knee also is affected. It typically affects the joints in the hands and feet but also may affect the shoulders, jaw, hips and knees. Patients suffering from RA also may experience fever, fatigue and a general ill feeling.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis, is a degenerative disease that occurs due to the breakdown of the cartilage in the joints. Although OA can occur at any age, it is most common in those over 65. According to information published in "Arthritis Today" by the Arthritis Foundation, more than 33 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis.

OA usually affects the weight-bearing joints, including the knees and hips, but also may develop in the hands and feet. The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest, inflammation of the joints and muscle weakness. Over time, the joints may become deformed.

Bursitis

Bursitis is a common type of arthritis that affects the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs found between the bones and tendons, muscles and ligaments. The bursae provide cushion for the joint; however, overuse of a joint can cause the bursae to become inflamed, causing pain. Bursitis most often affects the shoulders, elbows or hips but also can occur in the knee, heel or base of the big toe. Bursitis causes achy, stiff joints that may hurt when pressure is applied and may appear red and swollen. If left untreated, the pain can escalate to sharp, shooting pains, and a fever may arise. Treatment includes resting the affected joint, applying ice and using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. With proper treatment, the symptoms of bursitis usually subside within a few weeks, according to doctors at the Mayo Clinic.

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What Foods Inflame Rheumatoid Arthritis?

What Foods Inflame Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The influence of nutrition on inflammation has been studied since the 1930s, with results showing a number of possible food hypersensitivities and allergies that could increase inflammation. Since food sensitivities do not affect every rheumatoid arthritis patient, foods should be eliminated from the diet one at a time and then added back in to determine your individual reaction. Work with a dietitian when considering eliminating food groups from your diet.

Meat and Dairy

A study at the University of Oslo in Norway found intestinal fluids from rheumatoid arthritis patients had higher levels of antibodies to proteins from cow's milk, eggs, codfish, cereal and pork compared to those without arthritis. This study was performed in test tubes not individuals, but shows the problem could begin in the gut. Dairy products have been shown to affect individuals in other studies, as well. Work with a physician and dietitian when trying an elimination diet.

Gluten

A study in Sweden found a gluten-free vegan diet improved symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Antibodies against gliadin, one of the gluten proteins, as well as arthritis symptoms decreased in those patients on eating the gluten-free vegan diet, but not in those eating the regular diet. Work with a dietitian and physician if considering elimination of gluten from the diet.

Alfalfa Seeds and Sprouts

Alfalfa may cause the immune system to become active and could lead to a flare-up of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple sclerosis. While this reaction has been seen in only a few people, it is best to avoid alfalfa in any form until more is known.

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Foods to Avoid With RA

Foods to Avoid With RA

Rheumatoid arthritis, commonly referred to as RA in the medical community, is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects your joints and surrounding tissues, according to Arthritis Today. The influence of nutrition on arthritis inflammation has led many health providers to conclude that food hypersensitivities and allergies can trigger arthritis symptoms. Since food sensitivities do not affect every arthritis patient, you should test suspected foods to determine whether they render a reaction. Consult a health care nutritionist or dietitian before eliminating food sources from your diet.

Gluten

According to the Department of Rheumatology at Huddinge University Hospital, gluten-free vegan diets improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. In a study conducted by the university, researchers found that antibodies against the gluten protein gliadin decreased arthritis symptoms in participants eating a gluten-free vegan diet. However, the results were not the same for those participants who ate a regular diet. For best results, consult with your doctor before eliminating gluten from your diet.

Dairy Products and Meat

In a study conducted by the University of Oslo, researchers found intestinal fluids derived from rheumatoid arthritis participants contained elevated levels of antibodies to proteins from eggs, cow's milk, pork, cereal and codfish compared to those without arthritis. Since your body responds to infection threats by producing additional antibodies, this means that these foods can potentially inflame or aggravate your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Speak with your physician about eliminating or replacing certain foods in your diet regimen.

Alfalfa Seeds and Sprouts

Alfalfa is an herb commonly used by people to make medicine. According to MedlinePlus, alfalfa can cause your immune system to become active, which can subsequently contribute to the flare-ups of autoimmune disease, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and lupus. Although this reaction is experienced by a few people, try to avoid all forms of alfalfa until more is known about the herb.

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Vitamins Good for Arthritis

Vitamins Good for Arthritis

Arthritis occurs when the joints become inflamed, causing pain and stiffness in the joints. According to the MayoClinic.com, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common forms of arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs either from injury or from the constant wear and tear of daily life. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the person's immune system attacks the joints and causes inflammation. Medications, supplements, therapy and surgery are options for people with arthritis. Patients should always consult with their doctor before taking any type of supplement.

Fish Oil

Fish oil is a fatty acid that is found naturally in fish and can offer many healthy benefits. Fish oil can be consumed through eating fish; however, people looking to relieve arthritis symptoms supplements will also be needed. According to Arthritis Today, a sister site of The Arthritis Foundation, in nine studies, fish oil seems to reduce joint inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis. In six studies of people with rheumatoid arthritis who took fish oil supplements reduced the amount of pain medication they were taking. Fish oil supplements should contain at least 30 percent of EPA/DHA which are types of fatty acids.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is naturally occurring in the body and helps build cartilage that helps cushion the joints. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, glucosamine has been found to help treat people with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage breaks down over time of from an injury. In some studies of people with osteoarthritis who have taken glucosamine have found a decrease in joint pain. While other studies have shown no effect of glucosamine on osteoarthritis. According to Arthritis Today, scientists are still unsure why there is a difference in results.

Sam-E

Sam-E is naturally occurring in the body and has been associated with improved joint health and treat osteoarthritis Same-E works as an anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce pain in the joints. According to Arthritis Today, there have been numerous studies conducted on people with osteoarthritis who have taken Sam-E and found that the supplement worked just as well at reducing pain as an over the counter medication and some prescription medications. Same-E should not be taken without consulting the patient's doctor as it can interfere with certain medications. Generally 600mg to 1,200mg of Sam-E are taken to treat osteoarthritis.

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Natural Arthritis Diet

Natural Arthritis Diet

Overview

About 46 million Americans suffer from a form of arthritis, which causes joint pain, stiffness and inflammation. Over-the-counter and prescription drugs are common arthritis treatments. However, they can produce severe side effects that motivate many arthritis patients to seek natural or alternative remedies. One natural approach is diet, and researchers have been exploring its role in arthritis since the 1930s, according to the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center.

Definition and Causes

The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis usually results from aging and injury, states MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health. It usually develops after age 40. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes your body's immune system to attack the joints and tissues. This form of arthritis affects both children and adults. Rheumatoid arthritis is also the form of arthritis on which diet research tends to focus.

Foods that Help

There is evidence that vegetarian and vegan diets can relieve symptoms of arthritis, such as one study conducted by researchers at the Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm. They found that a gluten-free vegan diet could increase the levels of antibodies that combat substances that contribute to inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. Fatty fish, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and tart bing cherries may also relieve arthritis-related inflammation.

Foods that Hurt

According to the Arthritis Foundation, researchers at the University of Oslo looked at the antibodies of people with rheumatoid arthritis, or RA. They discovered that their intestinal fluid contained higher levels of antibodies to proteins in foods, such as cereal, cow's milk, eggs and pork, compared to people without RA. In essence, their bodies reacted to these foods as allergens.



Milk, meat and processed foods are leading allergy suspects, states Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center. An elimination diet--cutting out certain foods for a period of time to see if your arthritis improves--can be useful to pinpoint your RA allergy triggers. The Arthritis Foundation also recommends limiting sugar, salt and alcohol intake, if you have arthritis.

Fasting

The Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center warns that fasting is a risky, short-term treatment that is not accepted as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. While fasting may improve your symptoms for a few days, it has no proven long-term benefits.

Placebo Effect

Although these studies and others show that diet can improve symptoms for some arthritis patients, the debate on the diet-arthritis connection isn't over. According to the Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, some experts suggest that in certain cases, dietary changes may simply result in a placebo effect, which means you may feel better from a treatment, but there's no physical improvement. However, switching to a healthier diet is a low-risk strategy to manage arthritis--and it improves your overall health.

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Diet & Rehumatoid Arthritis

Diet & Rehumatoid Arthritis

Overview

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that causes joint pain, swelling and stiffness. It typically affects more than one joint, and in advance cases, can also damage internal organs. Women are more likely to suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, which has no known cure. Some health professionals suggest that avoiding or eating certain foods may help to improve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. However, consult with your rheumatologist before making any changes to your diet.

Possible Causes and Other Symptoms

While there is no known cause of rheumatoid arthritis, it's possible that genes, environment and hormones play a role in the development of the condition, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Besides pain, inflammation and stiffness in your joints, symptoms can include weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, fever and swollen glands. Poor joint function, numbness or tingling in your hands and feet and joint deformation can also occur.

Foods that Make RA Worse

There is debate about whether some foods can make rheumatoid arthritis worse or trigger flares. However, there is evidence that what you eat can affect your symptoms. For instance, in a study published in September 2006 in "Gut," a group of researchers from Norway looked at food antibodies --- proteins your immune system produces when it detects a harmful substance --- in the gut. Your immune system can mistake food as a harmful substance. The resulting antibodies trigger reactions that can cause symptoms. The study indicates that people with rheumatoid arthritis have higher amounts of antibodies to proteins from cereal, codfish, cow's milk, eggs and pork than those who do not have the condition. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. If you notice that these foods or others aggravate your symptoms, try eliminating them to see if your arthritis improves.

Foods that Help

Increasing foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids helps to reduce inflammation. The omega-3 fats eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid are found in coldwater fish such as salmon, halibut, tuna and mackerel. Another omega-3 fat, alpha-linolenic acid, is found in foods such as flaxseed and walnut and their oils, as well as dark leafy vegetables.

Supplements

Adding certain types of supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, to your diet might also provide relief. Avocado soybean unsaponifiables, natural extracts from avocado and soybeans, help to slow the deterioration of cartilage and to repair cartilage. Also, ginger contains active compounds, which reduce pain and inhibit the inflammatory chemicals tumor necrosis factor- alpha and cyclooxygenase-2, or COX-2 --- both of which contribute to rheumatoid arthritis.

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Diseases That Are Like Rheumatoid Arthritis

Diseases That Are Like Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that causes joint pain in many parts of the body. This pain is typically seen or felt in the small joints of the wrists, fingers and feet. Because it is an inflammatory disease with body wide effects, symptoms such as fever, fatigue, malaise--not feeling well, loss of appetite and weight loss may occur in rheumatoid arthritis. There are a number of diseases that are like rheumatoid arthritis because they have some of its symptoms.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that involves deterioration of cartilage at joints. Cartilage is the part of joints that cushions the surfaces of the bones and allows smooth movement to occur. The Arthritis Foundation explains that osteoarthritis is characterized by deterioration of cartilage. This gives rise to symptoms similar to those seen in rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms that osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis share are pain in the joint, joint stiffness and loss of movement at affected joints. Osteoarthritis is similar to rheumatoid arthritis because they share these symptoms.

Gout

Gout is a disease that is like rheumatoid arthritis because its symptoms are similar to those seen in rheumatoid arthritis. The symptoms of gout are red, swollen, warm and painful joints. The Mayo Clinic explains that it is caused by accumulation of urate crystals at a joint. The accumulated crystals induce inflammation at the joint, which then lead to the symptoms of gout.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

"The Autoimmune Connection: Essential Information for Women on Diagnosis, Treatment, and Getting on with Your Life," by Rita Baron-Faust and Jill P. Buyon says that lupus also called systemic lupus erythematosus looks a lot like rheumatic arthritis. Lupus like rheumatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease. It is a chronic--life long--inflammatory condition that can affect almost every part of the body including the joints. When lupus affects the joints, it is manifested as swelling, redness and stiffness in the affected joint. These are all symptoms also seen in rheumatoid arthritis.

Psoriatic Arthritis

The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library says that psoriatic arthritis is similar to rheumatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disease that affects the joints. It occurs in people who have psoriasis--an inflammatory skin disease characterized by raised patches of skin with red bases and white flaky tops. The Arthritis Foundation reports that 5 to 23 percent of psoriasis sufferers will develop psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms of this condition that are similar to those seen in arthritis are joint pain, swelling at the joints and a feeling of warmth in the joints.

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